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I would like to make a mahogany bookcase and need help on three issues. 1. I have tried on scrap a natural Danish oil and like it however, if I wanted the wood a little darker, is there a different oil that can be recommended? (I’m not sure what variations Danish oil comes in and whether any of those would be good without being to dark) 2. After applying the oil, what is the best way to get a luster? Wax? 3. I haven’t decided whether to go with all hardwood or both ply and hardwood. Is there going to be a difference in the finished if some is hardwood and some is plywood? Cost is not a factor but concerns of color difference and expansion and contraction are.
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Replies
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1. Danish oil is a term used to describe a finish which is a mixture of oil (usually tung or linseed), varnish and thinners. You may be able to find a brand that also has a dye added to darken it. (I know Watco used to make one marketed especially for walnut, don't know if they still do.) Or you could simply stain your project before applying the finish, using either a dye stain or a pigment stain.
2. Wax applied over a couple of coats of a cured Danish oil finish, then buffed out, will give the piece a nice warm luster.
3. Plywood and solid lumber do accept finishes differently. The lumber is capable of absorbing more stain or oil than the plywood, which has a very thin layer of veneer over an impenetrable layer of glue. The contrast will be minimized if you use a stain.
*Need help building a mahogany dining table unsure how to finish . Should I use a wood filler welcome suggestions thanks
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