Replies

1. 
   Paul_Snyder | Feb 20, 2005 02:32am | #1

   Bruce,

   I'd use a wiping varnish. It will build a protective film with 2-3 coats (more if you like) and provide the sheen of your choice as well as good durability. You can use a pre-mixed varnish/polyurethane like Waterlox or General Finishes Arm-R-Seal or you can thin just about any varnish/poly with mineral spirits at a ratio of 1:1 and use it as a wiping varnish.

   Paul S
   Website

1. 
   Stretch | Feb 20, 2005 06:11pm | #4

   Paul,

   Thanks.  I have used pre mix and mix your own wiping varnish.  I have considered that for this cabinet.  Such finishes don't require as much hard rubbing as Tried and True (I have had good results with it for pieces that were not stained.)

    

   Bruce

    

2. 
   ohiobob | Feb 20, 2005 03:25am | #2

   i used minwax antique oil on top of bartley's gel stain on this piece. it gave it a low lustre look. it does not leave a heavy layer so i would not recommend it on a piece that will take wear like tables.

   
3. 
   Jaimeson | Feb 20, 2005 05:41am | #3

   Bruce,

   On furniture with moderate to heavy wear I've had great results with Bartley's Gel Varnish (Satin).  On side tables I've put 2-3 coats on legs and aprons and 4-5 coats on the top.  It applies by hand and very easy.

   For light wear cabinets (those haning on the wall), I also like Minwax Antique oil 2-3 coats builds nicely, but leave a low luster.

   Good luck,

   Marc L.

1. 
   Stretch | Feb 20, 2005 06:21pm | #5

   Thanks Marc,

   I have used wiping varnish.  My formula is 1/3 boiled linseed oil, 1/3 turps or mineral spirits and 1/3 poly varnish.  I figure I should not need the linseed oil on this cabinet that is stained.  Or I can use the commercially prepared product.

    

   Bruce

    

1. 
   HowardAcheson | Feb 20, 2005 10:10pm | #6

   Bruce, your brew is a slightly different product than a thinned wiping varnish. A thinned wiping varnish is just standard varnish that is thinned so it can be wiped on. Once the thinner evaporates, it is exactly the same as standard varnish and creates a film finish.The equal parts of boiled linseed oil, varnish and thinner is an oil/varnish penetrating oil mixutre almost identical to Watco Danish Oil, Minwax Antique Oil or Minwax Tung Oil Finish. It penetrates into the wood leaving the look and feel of the wood intact. It's basically an oil finish, not a film finish. Of the two, the thinned wiping varnish will be more durable and can have a higher gloss. The oil/varnish is low luster close to the wood finish but is not as durable.Both are good finishes for certain applications.Howie.........

1. 
   Stretch | Feb 21, 2005 02:26am | #7

   Thanks Howie,

   I am going to go with the thinned varnish.  With the gel stain sitting on the surface I don't think I need to use a penetrating finish.  Others who responded to my question did suggest an oil varnish.   I use my brew on sculptures I do and have used it on some tables.  So far it has held up well. 

   Bruce