Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 21, 2006 05:00am | #1

   Popping the grain is done for that piece.  Even at 50% dilution, the Epifanes as sealed it sufficiently that other materials would have minimal effect, though you could use an oil-based stain which would leave pigment in the pores, and little on the hard surfaces, which would emphasize the grain considerably.  Beyond that I would stick with the Epifanes.  For doors that must face the elements you don't want different materials--which after all expand and contract differently-- causing even slight problems.  Epifanes is about the best there is as far as marine spar varnish goes--I would strongly advise continuing with it. It has passed the marine market test, and Practical Sailor (a non-commercial testing magazine) tests for many years.  There are a few equal varnishes but none superior.   If this door gets significant sun you should give it about 6 coats of Epifanes, diluted only about 10%-12% and applied with a brush.  Lightly scuff sand between coats using 320 grit sand paper.   Keep an eye on it and patch any dings promptly.  Sand and add another coat if you see the finish start to lose its gloss. 

1. 
   acornpc | Aug 26, 2006 09:01pm | #2

   Hi Steve

   Thanks for your thoughts-glad you like Epiphanes too.  So far we have just prefinished the panels so we do have the option to pop the curl on the door frame veneer, which is the most dramatic part.  Any suggestions?

   M

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 27, 2006 02:35am | #3

   Maximum "curl pop" is achieved with BLO.  One coat is sufficient.  Then shift to the epifanes to complete the finish.  I expect you will see only a very little difference between the pop you get from the varnish only and the pop you get when you start with the BLO. 

   Report back when you are complete.