I have recently finished some tables with Tried & True Varnish Oil and then applied wax. The finish looks great, but I’d like it to be more resistant to water and scratches. If I wipe the tables down with mineral spirits, can I apply a rub on poly over the varnish oil? Any other suggestions for improving durability are welcome. Thanks!
Daniel
Replies
Wax can be easily removed with mineral spirits. Wet a rag, rub the whole tabletop then wipe it dry using paper towels keeping a fresh face on the towels. Do it twice.
Now you are ready for any other finish. For something more durable, I would use a good interior varnish or poly varnish.
So, a follow-up question. As a standard practice could I use several coats of varnish oil first (for the depth and glow it brings), flowed by a couple coats of wipe on poly (for protection)? I realize the time involved, but would that work and would I be able to tell a difference between it and a finish using just wipe on poly? Daniel
duboisdp,
That is the process Howard recommended to me: wipe on poly over the oil varnish....greater protection from the harder film finish. I think it helps with the color and pop...but have not actually experimented.
Personally, I am not a fan of Tried & True. It's 90% marketing hype and 10% a linseed oil finish. A linseed oil finish is little better than no finish as far as watervapor protection and other protective qualities.
In other words, you can get the same coloring and depth by wiping on a coat of boiled linseed oil, letting it set 15-30 minutes and wiping it dry. Then let it fully dry for 24-48 hours and overcoat with whatever you want. You can also use any of the oil/varnish mixtures like Watco, Minwax Tung Oil Finish or your own homemade stuff. To make your own merely mix equal parts of your favorite varnish, boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits.
Let whatever finish you start with dry and then overcoat with whatever clear coat you are comfortable with.Howie.........
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