I was recently given a nice piece of unfinished cherry butcherblock that i would like to use as a top for the workbench I’m planning as soon as i finish my new shop. What finish would you recommend for both beauty and durability. I would like something with a gloss finish.
Scott
Replies
Scott,
Most work bench tops don't have a glossy finish due to the constant abuse associated with wood working. However, if it will see more nominal use, I would recommend a varnish or a urethane.
Personally I just prefer varnishes for their repair-ability. A urethane will also give you a tough coating but doesn't lend itself as well to maintenance.
A couple of varnishes that come to mind are Behlens Rock Hard and McCloskey Gym Seal. The Gym Seal is tough yet somewhat elastic at the same time. The down side is it has a strong yellowish cast. I've balanced that by mixing a small amount of raw umber japan color with mineral spirits and then added a small amount to my varnish. Not enough to really tint the varnish, just a bit to balance it out. Raw umber is on the cool ( greenish) side. You might also consider burnt umber a warmer chocolate brown.
You might also consider some of the floor finishes out there. Do a little research.
An easy finish would be to rub in a couple of coats of oil I.E. boiled linseed, watco etc. These won't give you any gloss but will seal the surface nicely and be easy to maintain with a periodic re-coat.
Good luck,
Peter Gedrys
There is a product called, "Good Stuff", (believe it or not!) that is a gel varnish specifically designed for butcher blocks that I have used for a kitchen island for the past ten years with great results. It will stay shiny until scratched or abraided but is then quite easy to renew. Available through Michigan Maple Block Co. or Bally Block Co. - Check internet for other sources.
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