I have a dilemna, I will be finishing a pair of cherry night stands and am testing out two options….1.) one coat of orange shellac, two coats of blonde shellac, then wax
Option #2). Boiled Linseed oil, then wax.
My question is which finish will give me the most durable? I am working out the details on scrap pieces and prepped them with a light sanding of 320 grit to help reduce any blotching. I don’t want to do a french polish or use a polyurethane on these pieces as I want to keep it a low lustre finish…..
Thanks for the input!
Replies
Of the two options you mentioned, the shellac will be more durable than the linseed oil. The shellac will be glossy unless rubbed out to satin. You might also consider something like Waterlox. The Original/Sealer gives a soft gloss, and there is also a Satin. These are wipe-on varnishes, but with no poly, that will be quite durable, with the degree depending on how many coats you apply.
If the linseed oil is your appearance favorite, you might get very close to a similar look with an oil/varnish mix, such as Watco, that would add a touch more durability.
In either option, the wax is just for appearance and adds only a very little to durability.
Edited 4/4/2006 8:05 pm ET by SteveSchoene
I like Deft brushing lacquer. It's big advantage is that it is a "hot" finish. Hot means each coat melts the previous coat and will blend in any sanding between coats. I like to spray with aersol can the last coat and rub out with 4/0 steel wool and lube.
It protects perfect for interior use and is alcohol,shellac will not.
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