I’m using M.L. Campbell’s Krystal post catalized finish on an oak table top. The oak is open grained (like most red oak) and would benefit by filling the pores. The finish warns against using more that three coats, so I’m reluctant to use the finish to seal the pores (by blocking sanding between coats).
What type of grain filler can I use and still be able to stain the wood and also get good adhesion?
Thanks!
Replies
I think you need to speak to the M L Campbell distributor. Higher tech finishes may have requirements based on the particular solvents in the product. I'd hesitate to recommend anything not specifically endorced by the manufacturer.
Thanks. MY local distributor has lost the experienced personnel they used to have and the new person doesn't have the background.
Have you tried spraying post catalized finish over grain filler that has been sealed with shellac?
No, I haven't used it.
Campbell's Duravar has been my "house finish" on commercial work for several years. It's build should be no more than 5 mils and I think you'll find that to be true of all Campbell's products (I've never used Krystal). 5 mils equals two coats, three coats max, depending on your gear and methods. Duravar, Krystal, etc do a superior job acting as their own sealers but they're useless as open grain wood fillers. They're topcoats. Very good topcoats.
They do sell a "paste wood filler". Ask your supplier or, better, settle your compatibility issues with Campbell directly (mlcampbell.com).
Good luck...
I usually use their CAB finish but am trying to get a table top finish that will resist heat (those tale-tell marks when you place a warm bowl on the table cloth). The M.L. Campbell web-site states that Krystal is their best at resisting heat.
As you suggest, I'll contact them about using their grain filler under Krystal.
Thanks.
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