Hello,
I bought a (German ‘Anke’) workbench. (My first)
It was delivered this morning, in a box.
I still have to do the assembly.
Is it a good idea to finish the wooden parts (beech) before assembly and what is the best product to use?
Thanks to you all.
Replies
For a maple topped workbench I built about 10 years ago, I simply used natural Watco oil, following the directions on the can, and then waxed frequently. When it gets a bit beat up, I give it a wash with mineral spirits, let dry, wipe with a clean cloth, and treat with Watco oil finish renewer. The bench top has developed a nice patina and looks great. For the legs and stretchers I used three coats of polyurethane. Anyway, I do suggest an easily renewable finish for the top.
Wes
Tonyd,
Congratulations ! I used Shellac on my workbench. As Wes said, just make sure it can be easily manitained and replaced....
Never a bad idea to finish before final assembly regardless of the project. Just checked Scott Landis' The Workbench Book, which agrees with Wes: any kind of penetrating oil, such as Watco or a wax and turpentine mix. Avoid finishes such as varnish that essentially remain on the surface and require a lot of maintenance. I'd use these not only on the top, but on all surfaces, since any part of the bench is prone to denting and scratching.
Jeff
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