Replies

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Jan 27, 2012 10:46am | #1

   What oil/varnish are you planning to use?  One of the store bought brands (Watco, Minwax, etc) or one you mix up yourself?

   The application schedule is to apply a coat of the oil/varnish liberally and keep wet for 15-20 minutes.  Then wipe off all the excess finish.  Come back every 15-20 minutes and re-wipe if there is any bleed back.  Once wiped, let it dry overnight and then do the same thing the next day.  This time, rub in the oil/varnish using 3/0 steel wool and rubbing in the direction of the grain.  Let it set 15-20 minutes and wipe off all the excess.  Now let it dry 48 hours before using.  Paste wax adds nothing to the finish but if you want to apply it, let the item fully dry for a week.

   The varnish in the oil/varnish mixture will effectively seal the surface and pores of the and more than two applications will lead to a soft, gummy surface.  Two coats is enough.

2. 
   woodworker417 | Jan 28, 2012 09:22pm | #2

   Hi Howie -- Thanks for all

   Hi Howie --

   Thanks for all the help... I now have 2 coats following the above process and it looks nice... exactly how it is "suppossed" to look, I believe -- but its leaving me a bit underwhelmed... Now i'm looking for a bit more sheen... so, can i follow up the 2 coats of an oil/varnish blend with a straight wiping varnish?   if so, would that give the piece a bit more shine?  I think i sort of anticipated this which is why i was originally planning on buffing the piece with paste wax... i guess i thought it would add a final sheen... but i know that wasn't correct... anyway, thx for any further thoughts... 

   thanks!

   tony.