Replies

1. 
   pins | Aug 17, 2006 12:52am | #1

   It is my experience that analine dyes, and I use them a lot, 'muddy up' the figured maples. Try shellac first on a sample. Even prepackaged ones that say they are 'clear' have enough color to do what you want.

   John

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 17, 2006 02:02pm | #3

   Typically, the analine dye recommendation calls for dye to be applied, and then mostly sanded off.  This leaves dye only in the softer parts of the figure and removes it from the harder surfaces where penetration has not been so deep.  The result is significantly enhanced figure.  If not sanded the dye colors more uniformly and consequently reduces the contrast in the figure. 

   On veneer this technique is a bit problematic given the risk of sanding too much. 

1. 
   pins | Aug 17, 2006 02:15pm | #4

   That may work, seems to me to be more work. I'll stick with shellac.John

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 17, 2006 02:46pm | #5

   Absolutely it is a bit more work but it does give a different effect.  And, unless this is thick veneer I wouldn't risk the amount of sanding needed to bring out the contrast. 

2. 
   wooddood | Aug 17, 2006 07:58am | #2

   I've been told that you can't really use an oil finish on veneer because there's nothing for the oil to sink into. Is that true, or have I been led down yet another garden path of false information? I've been spraying lacquer on quilted maple veneer and have been pretty happy with the results. The lacquer seems to make the quilts pop and gives a nice 3D quality to the surface.

3. 
   JohnH | Aug 17, 2006 04:29pm | #6

   I've finished my second quilted maple veneer project. After substantial experimentation, this is my method and it definitely enhanced the figure on the veneer I have.

   I use Honeytone Amber aniline dye from Lee Valley. Make the standard mix given with the dye packet. Thin it down to 1:5 dilution. Wipe on plain water, wipe off the excess, let it dry overnight, sand off the raised grain with 220 grit, wipe on the dye, wait about a minute, wipe off the excess, let it dry overnight, sand lightly with 220 grit.

   Use David Marks' finish method http://www.djmarks.com/stories/faq/What_is_the_mix_ratio_for_the_Linseed_Oil_Tung_Oil_and_Urethane_46687.asp

   For the very last gloss coat, thin the varnish 50% with mineral spirits, brush it on with the best brush you can find, do not wipe off the excess. Do not use anything but gloss, the dullers diminish the figure.

   I like the result; my wife likes the result; my Fine Woodworkers Club liked the result. You may not. Experiment, experiment, experiment, and find what looks good to you.