I’ve just finished a chest of drawers. The drawers are made from solid cherry with cherry plywood bottoms. I’m uncertain as to whether I should leave the interiors as is; ie, raw wood, or whether I should coat with shellac. Is there an accepted standard for drawer finishes? I’d appreciate any susgestions.
Bob Kingsley
Replies
Hi Bob,
I like to use a clear coat on the interior/sides of drawers to make them smooth. Raw wood can snag clothing - especially delicate fabrics. All the "factory" pieces I've checked either used clear coated wood or painted particle board (or similar products) in their drawers. I use a water-base product to avoid long-term odors.
Paul
Enclosures and drawers that will contain clothing should never be finished with and oil or oil based product. They off-gas forever and the odor permeate clothing.
Either leave them unfinished, or use a shellac, lacquer or waterborne finish only.
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