Replies

1. 
   john_c2 | Apr 27, 2020 04:36am | #1

   I wouldn't put poly on top of oil. Sooner or later it's going to separate. I'd use 2 coats of Zinsser Sealcoat or other dewaxed shell a.c., and poly on top of that.

2. 
   ben_tarrytownny | Apr 27, 2020 06:16am | #2

   If this is going to be your main table that will get used all the time, I would recommend spending the dough and having a pro finish it. You'll get a easily cleanable and durable finish.

   For DIY options, consider the following:

   -If you are using Honduran Mahogany, it will have have large pores. To get a super smooth table top, you will likely want to fill these pores. That is a small adventure in itself. You could also just leave it, but like Oak, you will see and feel these visible pores.

   Don't put oil base and water base finish together, it's just probably not a great idea, and also water base finish likely won't highlight the wood as well. I typically see water-base as a finish that is ideal for keeping maple pale, otherwise I don't see the advantage.

   If you are just going to use oil poly, then just use oil poly for everything. Nothing magical happens from putting a seal-coat of shellac on first unless you are worried about blotching.

   In any case, make sure you finish a test piece first from a scrap piece of the same wood you are using for the table top.

   Good luck.

3. 
   user-7211029 | Apr 27, 2020 09:57am | #3

   You have the right idea if you are set up to spray water based finishes. The oil will warm up the wood and the topcoat will provide protection. John_c2 is right about using shellac but one light coat is sufficient if you let the oil dry. That being said, be careful about your choice of tung oil. If it is true 100% tung oil it could take some time to dry. I would use a polymerized tung oil or just use a Danish oil or the like. A good quality waterborne poly is a pretty durable topcoat or you could look at something like General Finishes waterborne two part conversion varnish. The conversion varnish is very tough. Good luck!