Replies

1. 
   user-52008 | Oct 19, 2006 05:15pm | #1

   It's true that many fine antiques don't have any finish on the inside, but I always put a finish on the inside of casework. That said, I only use shellac or lacquer because once they cure, they off-gas less of an odor.

2. 
   JohnWW | Oct 19, 2006 05:24pm | #2

   One rarely finds the interiors finished on older pieces, so it isn't a neccessity, but there is no harm done if the interior is finished.  For doors and drawers I prefer to have at least a minimal finish for appearance and to keep the wood from getting dirty.

   The classic finish for cabinet interiors is shellac, very quick and easy to apply, just one or two quick thin coats and you are done.  Shellac is also the traditional choice because it is odorless once it has dried.  As many woodworkers have discovered the hard way, oil and varnish finishes have an unpleasant odor that can persist for years in the interior of a cabinet. 

   John White, Shop Manager, Fine Woodworking Magazine 

1. 
   DCarr10760 | Oct 19, 2006 06:46pm | #3

   JohnWW says:

   "As many woodworkers have discovered the hard way, oil and varnish finishes have an unpleasant odor that can persist for years in the interior of a cabinet."

   Or Decades! 

   I have a blanket chest that I made in 1983, the inside was finished with Old Villiage Alkyd Enamel, after 23 years I still get a whiff of paint when I open it.  And that's after several scrubs with various cleansers and leaving it open out in the sun for days and cracked open in use for weeks at a time...

   David C. 

    

2. 
   Rich14 | Oct 19, 2006 07:01pm | #4

   "As many woodworkers have discovered the hard way, oil and varnish finishes have an unpleasant odor that can persist for years in the interior of a cabinet. "

   Add NC lacquer as a finish that can leave a long lingering odor inside a cabinet.

   Another vote for that wonderful material, shellac.

   Rich