I have an old Quebec blanket box which I think is made from ‘butternut’ wood.It was stripped of paint 40 years ago and has been left unfinished ever since.
It is a beautiful piece made with single 18″ plank sides and top.
I intend to sand down and am looking for suggestions on how to finish with a natural look that will be long lasting. A Min wax finish has been suggested – is this a good idea or should I use a different finish??
Thanks for your help.
Replies
Minwax is a manufacturers brand name, not a specific finish. None the less, you can do better. It depends on what kind of look you want.
My personal preference calls for shellac on anything that won't be walked on. It can be very blonde, darkening the wood very little, or rather dark--garnet or other dark shades. Shellac gives a fairly glossy finish with lots of depth and character.
If you want a less formal look, with an "in the wood" character, you could use an oil/varnish mixture. Watco is one of these.
Other choices are possible for sure, so you might be better served if you indicate what kind of look you are hoping to achieve. Sounds like a very interesting piece.
I am looking for a soft and informal "in the wood" look.
Something that will color the wood only slightly. The wood now is a light, soft butternut color and I don't want to change that a lot - just give it a more stable cared for and finished look.
Thanks for your help.
After your sanding (vey lightly please!!) wipe it down with mineral spirits. The look of the wood while wet with the spirits will be the color you will get with a clear finish. A wipe on varnish (non-poly) will give a nice "in the wood" look. Shellac will also preserve the grain and the natural color.Gretchen
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