Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Jan 22, 2007 04:32am | #1

   I don't understand why you say you can't use a gel stain under Waterlox (I assume you mean Original/Sealer--there are a number of other flavors sold under the Waterlox brand.)  Waterlox isn't an oil finish, it is varnish, and shouldn't be a problem over gel stain, once you let the stain become well cured.  It is thinned sufficiently to be wiped on, and can be used as a thin, barely there film.  But it can also be allowed to build over a surface sealed with the gel stain--it doesn't need to penetrate and be wiped off like an oil or oil/varnish.  Those later finishes can't be allowed to build on the surface since they cure to a very soft, almost gummy with pure oils, finish. 

2. 
   gboot | Jan 22, 2007 06:50pm | #2

   George,
   Last year I completed a similar Cherry ply/hardwood bookcase and base cabinet unit. For the panels in the doors and other places I used Curly Cherry veneer and solids. I wanted to even out color variations in the wood but not apply too much color as Cherry will darken over time. I tried several stains including Bartley's and Minwax gel stains but settled on Minwax Cherry non-gel stain to my eyes best met my color goals.
   For a finish I used the Minwax wipe on poly for ease of applcation and durability - book shelves take a fair amount of abuse.
   A year later I remain pleased with the results.

1. 
   [email protected] | Jan 23, 2007 02:10am | #3

   Thanks for the good information about your experience.