I don’t know much about finishing. Mostly I use a wipe on oil finish. I like the way it looks and I can do it without messing up a project.
I want to build a blanket chest and I’m confused about how to finish it. I’ve heard, and read in Knots, that wipe on oil isn’t good for a blanket chest as it smells (which wouldn’t be good for blankets). I’ve noticed myself that the oil finish smells for quite awhile. Mostly I’ve just let projects stand a long time to let the smell go away then then put them to use.
I read that some people use oil on the outside of a blanket chest and use shellac on the inside. I thought that I would give that a try, until I read that a drawback to shellac is that it isn’t a very durable finish. I’d like the blanket chest to last a long time and I’m reluctant to finish the inside with something that won’t take some abuse.
My experience with polyurethane is that it is durable, but not repairable. I also don’t love the way it looks (maybe that doesn’t matter so much on the inside of a chest).
My problem is that I can find a drawback to all the finishes that I am considering for the inside of the chest. What seems like a good idea to you?
Thanks.
–Whit
Replies
Whit,
Don't put any type of oil inside the chest, you'd regret it.
Shellac is a perfect choice for the interior. I don't know who said it isn't durable. I wouldn't use it for a dining table with kids around, but shellac is a great coating. You only need a couple of coats for the interior. Giving it a light sanding between coats will produce a soft surface to work with. A light scuffing of the final coat will give you a great surface that won't catch on anything. Another little trick with shellac; try putting a couple of drops of vanilla in your shellac. It will give it a nice fragrance. The old timers used to use Gum Benzoin in their shellac for the same fragrance.
For what it's worth you could certainly use shellac for the entire finish (outside and inside)
What kind of wood are you using for the case?
Peter
Thanks, I'll do that. Tomorrow I'll get some shellac and try a little on some scrap pieces to get used to using it.I haven't decided what wood to use. I intend to use mahogany for the rail and stiles, the panels will be whatever looks interesting and is available when I go to buy the wood.It is really helpful to have some knowledgeable advice before committing time and effort to a piece.--Whit
If you have money buy tools. If you have money left over, buy food and clothing.
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