Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Sep 28, 2007 03:09pm | #1

   Shellac or a waterborne finish both work if any finish is to be applied.  Lots of drawers aren't finished.  It is important to avoid oil or oil based finishes since in the confined spaces odors linger.

1. 
   fatboy2 | Sep 28, 2007 06:33pm | #2

   I just completed a bazillion drawers for my house, using 1/2in baltic birch ply. I sprayed them with Sherwin williams lacquer sanding sealer. Two coats, sanded 320. They feel like satin and cover all smells
   Stef

2. 
   brad805 | Sep 28, 2007 07:47pm | #4

   Any concern using Shellac for washroom vanity drawers?

2. 
   Hastings | Sep 28, 2007 07:38pm | #3

   Bass:

   I have recently competed some 13 drawers in soft maple for my kitchen. Despite the conventional wisdom, I sprayed them with a single coat of S-W catalyzed lacquer over a coat of their vinyl sealer, with a light sand of P220 in between. I left them outside for half a day to allow the off-gas to disperse.

   It makes for a durable and easy to clean surface. And no odors!

   Hastings

3. 
   Lataxe | Sep 28, 2007 08:53pm | #5

   KU,

   I generally leave the inside of drawers unfinished; or maybe just waxed if darkening of the wood is required.  (Beeswax ceases to smell after a short while; or just leaves a faint but pleasant odour).

   Sometimes one wants the drawer to smell albeit not of some heavy oil. I like to put cedar bottoms in drawers that will have clothes in.  After a while the smell is faint but apparenty enough to keep the moths at bay. 

   Another finish I use that imparts a pleasant smell (and also offers some protection) is lemon oil.  I understand it is made from lemon grass, not the citrus fruit.  It is a very thin, light il and the smell is quite faint, even after just a day or so.

   Lataxe, who smells nice hisself (well, not always).