Hi,
I’m in need of some advice on choices of finish for a few projects. I’m using bloodwood and red palm for a jewelry box. I prefer a higher gloss finish that keeps the natural appearance of the wood.
I also have some quilted makore and flame birch to use on other projects. What is the best way to get the grain to pop for these two woods?
I normally rub on a mixture of tung oil, turpentine and polyurethane but was wondering if there is a better choice.
Looking forward to a reply.
Scott
Replies
Scott,
Two easy choices for a glossy finish would be shellac or lacquer.
You can get lacquer as brushing type, such as Deft or in small spray cans (Behlen).
If you use the spray can be aware that it is a low solid so thin multiple coats will be necessary.
You can thin the brushing type to apply it with a pad or you can use a product like Qualosol which is a thin padding type lacquer. I know some who love this product, but like anything there is a learning curve.
Shellac will give you a beautiful surface. Blonde shellac will change the natural color of the wood the least. Zinseer SealCoat is blonde shellac, and is available in quarts.
If you need less, check into Liberon products. They make blonde as well as button and garnet shellac and available in 250ml bottle.
For suppliers, check out Homestead Finishing products and Woodworkers supply.
If you want to add an oil to the surface first for that look first, keep it simple. A very light coat of boiled linseed oil or one of the thin finishing oils like minwax antique oil will do the trick.
Concerning your mixture, and please take this with a grain of salt, it is completely unnecessary to make them. While it is fun to say you made the finish, you can simply buy a thin finish; watco, antique oil, waterlox etc. and get the same look. Keep it simple.
BTW, is the Senatorfan in regard to Ottawa?
Peter
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