We have a dining table 8’x3′ that I have been told is finished in catalyzed lacquer. My wife wants to be able to put dishware directly on the table without using a tablecloth. I thought to use a wipe-on poly but have been advised against that.
Is there a finish that would be doable by a DIYer to provide the protection?
I have a conversion gun, but unfortunately my compressor has stopped working.
Forrest
Replies
Protection
Catalyzed lacquer is strong enough on its own. I would use a paste wax for added protection and leave the original finish untouched,
SA
Most finishes will be scratched by dishware since it's typically ceramic with a rough surface underneath. Even the smoothest fine china is still abrasive. Explain to the Mrs. that some protection is needed to keep the finish unscratched. If she doesn't like table cloths, use placemets while eating, then remove them. Warm serving dishes should go on trivets, a runner or placemat. Don't attempt to do any finishing over the cat lacquer, it's not necessary and anything you could do will not be better.
A very light coat of furniture paste wax is a good idea. Wiped on, allowed to haze and buffed with a clean soft cloth. Too much wax will be a major pain to buff out and likely be visible. Spills will clean up easily and dust and other air borne contaminents won't bother the finish as much. This is usually done a couple times a year, as needed.
lacquer top
I have the best success with buying a glass top to protect the wood finish. I recently repaired a desk I had built 25 years ago, (the kids used the hand carved drawer handles to climb the desk) and I had used a glass top over the oak and walnut wood to protect it. The top was in perfect condition. The older daughter was going to get the desk, so I repaired the lose handle and gave the desk a lght touch up and brought it back to better than new with it's warm patina. It is good to see that beautiful well made furniture lives on. The tops of tables and desks take a lot of abuse and the glass handled it with ease.
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