Replies

1. 
   Howard_Acheson | Oct 12, 1999 05:34pm | #1

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   The standard formula is equal parts of varnish, linseed oil and either mineral spirits or naptha. The naptha will allow faster drying than the mineral spirits. Wipe it on, let it sit for 20 minutes and wipe it dry. Two coats are about all you should use as the finish does not build well. Some will use W&D sandpaper to sand the finish in by building a slurry.

   You can get some good ideas from Jeff Jewett's Hand Applied Finishes book.

   AS a dining room table top finish it is not very durable but it can be easily repaired.

1. 
   Howard_Acheson | Oct 12, 1999 05:37pm | #2

   *Oh, I meant to mention, you cannot use lacquer instead of varnish.One final point, the varnish, oil, thinner mixture is not materially different from Watco Oil and has about the same durability--or lack thereof.

1. 
   Rod_Cole | Oct 19, 1999 01:50am | #3

   *The oil, varnish, thinner mix, as you were told, is little different from Watco. It is a good mix and cheaper, but no more durable.I suggest you make your own wipe-on oil based poly. Mix poly half and half with thinner or naptha. This is all the manufacturers of the stuff do, but if you mix it yourself it is cheaper. This is every bit as durable as full strength poly (if you put on enough coats), but is much easier to apply. Use a piece of old cotton t-shirt. Dip it in the mix and squeeze it out gently. You want it wet but not dripping. Quickly wipe down the table top, making it wet but not dripping. You do not need to be careful - it will flow out nicely. Being thin it dries very quickly so don't go back over it. If you miss a spot, just get it next time. Since it dries so fast, dust is much less of an issue. I put on three coats in a day, each a couple/few hours apart (depending on heat and humidity). I do not sand between coats as they are not really cured, just dry to the touch. The next day it is good and dry, so sand lightly or rub out with a gray scotch brite before starting. Wipe off dust and put on another 3 coats. Stop when you like it, say 6 to 8 coats. This works well on vertical surfaces too. It is easy to put the finish on so thin it does not run.This should give you a very nice finish. To make it truely professional, wait a couple of weeks and buff it out with white automotive polishing compound.Good luck!- Rod Cole

1. 
   Pete_Vogel | Aug 07, 2000 07:50am | #4

   *What is the difference between laquer, varnish and shellac???