Replies

1. 
   joinerswork | Jul 18, 2005 04:11pm | #1

   don,

   It's a matter of preference.  Traditionally, blanket chest, and drawer interiors were not finished.  Typically, after time, they get pretty grungy.  So I put a coat or two of finish on these surfaces to help keep them clean.  Not so much that wear will leave a scuffed surface, but enough to seal things up.

   As far as the insides of the cases themselves, the only reason for applying any finish there is to equalize moisture migration from dry to wet seasons.  Good constuction technique, and modern glue pretty much eliminate worries about warpage from uneven moisture movement due to only one side of a top or end being finished, but I like to seal interior surfaces- to eliminate stress, both to the wood, and  my peace of mind.

   Regards,

   Ray

2. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 18, 2005 08:11pm | #2

   The number one thing to keep in mind is to never use an oil based finish on the inside of a cabinet or drawer that will contain clothing or cloth items.  The finish will off-gas almost forever and the odor will permeate any cloth or clothing.  Use only a waterborne or shellac finish.  Finishing certainly is not required on the inside either.

   Howie.........
3. 
   WillGeorge | Jul 18, 2005 08:42pm | #3

   Do you folks finish the insides.. Yep.. But before gluing!  ALOT easier!

1. 
   81treehouse | Jul 21, 2005 06:53am | #9

   Agreed!  But mask off the T&G edges so the glue will stick.

    

    A bad day woodworking is better than a good day working -- yes, I'm retired!

4. 
   DougF | Jul 19, 2005 04:22pm | #4

   I use 2 or 3 coats of lacquer on all of the interior parts before assemble.  I tape off the surfaces that will be glued.  The point about not oiling the interior is spot on.  If you work is in an area subject to large humidity swings, I would not apply the interior coats until you are ready for final assemble and applying the exterior coats to avoid cupping and warping. 

   
   

   ---

   Edited 7/19/2005 9:38 am ET by Doug

5. 
   Pondfish | Jul 19, 2005 06:32pm | #5

   I shellac the insides, applying two coats and sanding lightly afterward.  If you can do it before assembling, do so. 

   In my opinion, the shellac helps keep dirt out (versus unfinished wood) and sanded shellac surfaces can be slippery.  I do wax the drawer runners, etc., too.

   Whatever you do, don't use an oil finish, especially BLO.  You will get an undesirable smell.

   Recommending the use of "Hide Signatures" option under "My Preferences" since 2005
6. 
   mudman | Jul 20, 2005 08:15pm | #6

   I finish all interiors with either Shellac or Laquer. It is importaint to treat both sides of a piece equally so the wood will move more predictibly.

   Mike

   please excuse my spelling.
1. 
   HowardAcheson | Jul 21, 2005 12:35am | #7

   >> to treat both sides of a piece equally so the wood will move more predictibly

   Not necessary except when dealing with panels that will have little or no support structure.  For carcases, the support structure will normally be sufficient to keep things in place.Howie.........

1. 
   mudman | Jul 21, 2005 07:36pm | #10

   True,

   I tend to be a little on the cautious side when it comes to these things. He said a chest of drawers so I am imagineing large side panels. It is too easy to spray a little inside (not oil) to not do it.

   Mikeplease excuse my spelling.

7. 
   nhnut | Jul 21, 2005 04:15am | #8

   Do not apply an oil to the interior of your chest of drawers... it can become a huge problem with odors. I made the mistake a few years ago and tried to correct it by applying two coats of shellac to mask the smell. During humid days, the odor has returned. Ugh!