Replies

1. 
   peter28 | Apr 04, 2007 03:44pm | #1

   Richardz,

   What kind of wood did you use for this box?

   To get this look without the paint look is fairly easy and you have a few options.

   You have to get the "ground" color first. This can be done a number of ways. A concentrated black dye solution would be one way. If you used a water dye you can mix a very strong solution, strain it, warm it up in the microwave and apply it while warm. You can use Trans Tint or powdered dyes for this. Of course you'd want to raise the grain first by wetting the surface with water and sanding the fuzz off. I would add a slight bit of dye to this water to start the coloring process.

   Another way to get the "ground" is to use Japan paint. This is a quick drying oil based paint. Thin it out about 25% and lay down a few thin coats. Once dry use a fine sandpaper such as 400 or 600 grit to lightly sand the surface. Follow this with a rubbing with 0000 steel wool (Liberon is the best) and you'll see the surface start to glow. Always be careful of your edges.

   When the "ground color" is complete, you'll need to seal it. I would suggest you use shellac. Seal Coat is a good choice. Thin it out between 25 -50% depending on your touch. You can apply this with a small pad ( I've even used folded up paper towels for a small project like this) 

   The shellac can be your finish if you'd like. If you used Trans Tint for a color base you could also use it to tint the shellac. If so, after it has cured rub it down with some steel wool and a little wax and you'll have a soft satiny shine.

   You might also consider one of the spray lacquers by Behlens. This can be applied onto the sealed surface. Just keep the coats thin. This too can be rubbed with steel wool if desired.

   A good book for reference on these techniques is;

   The Art of the Painted Finish by Isabel O'Neil. You could probably find it at your local library. The descriptions in this book can be somewhat intense, but easily simplified. 

   Try your techniques on some sample boards first to get the look you want. It will be time very well spent.

   Peter

    

    

    

1. 
   RichardZ | Apr 04, 2007 04:35pm | #2

   My response in one word is "Wow"!

   You have given me a lot to chew on including Reference materials. Thanks.

   By the way, it is my first attempt and I used poplar. My box turned out fairly well but next time will use band clamps instead of metal wood clamps. The wood clamps are too clunky and get in the way.

   Much Thanks for the clear and concise advise,

   Richard

1. 
   peter28 | Apr 04, 2007 05:23pm | #3

   Your welcome.

   Have fun.

   peter