Seeking advice on finishing a woodworking project composed of different wood types. Even something simple like the serving tray in the attached image.
Finish before assembling? This would allow very different finishes (stains), but assuring good fit of joints seems problematic.
Finish after assembling? This would assure good fit, but applying different finishes (contrasting stains) seems problematic. Possible option is apply same finish for entire project and rely on natural contrast of the wood types (no stains).
Former seems unworkable. Latter seems limiting.
Thanks.
Replies
My preference is to do the coloring (the staining or dying) before assembly. Then the topcoat after assembly. I prefer this because my nemesis is glue squeeze out showing up after assembly, and preventing stain penetration.
If no stain works for you, thats OK too. I avoid it too when I can, in favor of things like tinted Danish Oil. But sometimes if there are color variations in the wood pieces (in the same wood in this case) staining or dying helps blend things together.
I'll be interested in hearing what others do.
"glue squeeze out showing up after assembly, and preventing stain penetration."
Hadn't thought of that. Thanks.
Well you can try to minimize it with masking tape and diligence in scraping off runs. But I always seem to have some get away from me.
Tape off any glue surfaces and do your staining. Let that cure and add 2 coats af dewaxed shellac. Then assemble and topcoat.
This is how I would do it. I think the wood in the photo looks very nice as is. Having said that, if you want to stain, nothing wrong with that as well. It's yours after all - make it how you want it.
You can minimize the effects of glue squeeze out interfering with the finish if you use Hide Glue.
Personally I don't use stain, I use woods that give me the colors and textures that I want in the piece and then use a clear finish on the completed work.
A wider range of opinions than I expected. I might experiment with both ways. Thanks.