Replies

1. 
   peter28 | May 16, 2008 03:45pm | #1

   Shellac is a great option. You don't need much either for a project like this. On small projects like this I often use shellac followed by wax.

   What will keep the hot wax from marring the surface? That would be an obvious problem for the above finish.

   If you see that as a problem, and oil based finish like varathane will stand up to the heat better. It will give the finish a slight yellow cast. Slight is the key word so don't let that scare you.

   Another option is to use a thin varnish like antique oil (minwax) or watco. They won't give you a surface film but be a "close to the grain" finish. It is simplicity personified to apply and re- apply if required in the future. It would also be very easy to remove the candle wax from the surface.

   Have fun.

   Peter

1. 
   Toolman599 | May 17, 2008 08:21am | #2

   Peter,

   Thanks much! Those are some great suggestions. For sure I am going to stick with Shellac (no pun intended) for this item. And you're right in that it won't take too much to finish the piece. But it's almost always that the 'small' projects give me grief. And being a small project, people like to get their noses almost into the candle wells when they look at it. It sure makes you double or even triple-check each cut or joint. Although, my wife did say she was not going to let anyone touch her candle holder. So thanks again Peter. I appreciate your sharing your experience with me. It's instances like this that makes me happy to tell people that I am a woodworker. We're always eager to help a fellow woodworker. Isn't it great??!!

   Best regards

   Mike

    

1. 
   peter28 | May 20, 2008 03:16pm | #3

   Mike,

   The exchange of ideas between woodworkers here is what makes it all worth while.

   Especially with people like you with a great attitude.

   Have fun.

   Peter