OK, it’s time for me to try a new finish. I’ve been using shellac for many years. I hate the plastic look of water-base poly finish. I also hate the bubbles on it’s surface. I’ve heard of Crystallac but don’t know much about it.
My application will be to finish several small (12 x 24) wall-hung display cases. Some will be maple, walnut and pine. Others will be pine with oil-based stain. I will also need to finish some childrens jigsaw puzzles. They will be made of Baltic Birch plywood, colored with water-based dyes.
Should I brush it on or spray it?? Regular sprayer or HVLP type?? Can I spray the really small stuff with an air brush?? Are there any special precautions that I should observe?? (Yea, I use a face shield and disposible ‘dust’ mask as S-O-P)
Thanks in advance for any suggestions. SawdudtSteve
Replies
Crystallac is made for commercial applications. I've sprayed it on whenever I use it, either regular spray gun or HVLP. If you want to brush it, I'd use retarder. Make sure you have plenty of fresh air movement.
I bought some Crystallac and their sanding sealer in my quest for a good water base system. Sorry to report, it is no different than ordinary hardware store products.
I tried crystallac filler too. Not the same as hardware store stuff. Much worse. Cloudy and impossible to sand. Keep looking.
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