My contractor recently built my new kitchen cabinets out of ash, and I am interested in applying a pigmented stain or dye to the unfinished cabinets, and have only recently educated myself in the particulars of this species. I’m looking for advice on what works best on ash, given its highly figured and porous grain. One option I’ve considered is using a sanding sealer and then using a sage-green tinted glaze, but I’m worried that too much glaze will collect in the pores, giving it a wild appearance. Or perhaps I should stick with using an aniline dye, oil-based, to get the color I’m wanting? I can’t find any image examples of ash being finished this way, so I wonder if I’m on the wrong track.
I’ll be practicing the finish on sample boards, but am desperate for some guidance to pass along to my finishers. Many thanks.
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Replies
First off, there isn't a "best way" to finish anything. It's what will please your eye and expectations the most.
Ash is a good hardwood with a sweeping grain and large pores. It will take a finish well although you haven't mentioned what type of finish you are considering. Will the finish be brushed or are you planning on a sprayed lacquer?
Concerning the color; if you plan on glazing yet don't want the pores to absorb much, the surface will need to be sealed well. This will eliminate the color lodging in them.
You also mentioned oil aniline. If you want to use an aniline why not water? Many are put off because it will raise the grain a little. That's a very simple fix. Wet the wood after sanding and then do your finish sanding. Another way is to "bury " the raised grain in the first coat of sealer and then sand them off. Simple.
The best advice I can give you is to go to the library and look for finishing books by the likes of Jeff Jewitt and Bob Flexnor. Take the time to read and familiarize yourself on products and procedures.
The part that concerns me the most is that you need to pass along procedure to your finishers. It should be the other way around.
Peter
Peter,
Thank you for your advice.
The cabinet builder advised me to stay away from water based products because of the grain, but it sounds like that won't be a problem. That's a game changer, because I would rather use water-based products. I understand you can achieve more vibrant color, which I would prefer. I'll also look into your recommended reading.
Thank you so much for your time.
Rebecca
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