I have a small box with some intricacies, an inset lid, raised letters inset into a mortise on the outside of the lid and many inside corners. I’m looking for tips on applying finish, where there are so many small faces and surfaces that could trap finish or be difficult to hold or stand while finishing. Tried a practice piece and shellac pooled inside the letters and I left fingerprints on the tiny sides. Kind of a nightmare. Any suggestions would help.
Replies
Spray it. If you don't have spray gear go with a rattle can. Find one with a fan-pattern nozzle. Laquer, shellac, or even poly.
If you are using shellac from the can that is a problem. Straight from the can it is way too thick to be used for anything without creating problems. Pour off a bit and thin it down, use dewaxed shellac for this. It will quickly soak into the wood and dry. Then if you want you can set up another container with waxed shellac, also thinned down, and apply THIN additional coats.
If you are spraying, you use the same process. If you don't thin it you will get puddles.
Thanks for the helpful suggestions. More information...I initially tried spraying shellac from a can, which didn't get into all the nooks and crannies and ended up being too much in some spots, not enough in others. I tried to clean the mess by lightly brushing a little solvent over the heaviest accumulations, which helped somewhat. I like littlegrasshopper's idea for thin, diluted coats, because it seems I might have more control over the coating.
I'm betting you had a round spray pattern, very easy to get what you describe. Find a fan spray tip, you'll be shocked at the diff.
I would also suggest spraying.
In the future, I would recommend applying finish to some parts before assembly.
Last time I had something with lots of hard to get to spots I made a half gallon or so of very thin shellac. I then dipped the piece for a see seconds and then shook it off and let it dry, and repeat. I did about 15 coats. The key being really thin shellac, probably 1/8-1/4 lb cut.
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