Replies

1. 
   peter28 | Feb 22, 2008 05:04pm | #1

   It sounds like you have a good handle on what you are looking for.

   If you plan on using the stain over the shellac I would suggest you made a couple of sample boards first.

   Cut the shellac 5050 and apply this wash coat to a piece.

   Do another one 7525 (shellacthinner)

   Another 2575

   Do another full strength.

   When dry apply the stain to each and see which one pleases your eye the most. By putting a coat of finish on it you'll get a true read of what you'll end up with.

   Be sure these sample boards are big enough to give you an accurate visual perspective. Something at least 10-12 by 16 would be my minimum.

   For a top coat, consider using Waterlox. It comes in satin, gloss and original. They are a wiping varnish, are extremely easy to use and IMO, just look better than urethane's.

   In any event it sounds like you have planned your look carefully. Good for you. Have fun doing it.

   FWIW, don't listen to anyone who says you can'tshouldn't color cherry. It's all just a matter of personal taste. I've shown "purists" finished cherry that they swore was old because only time can make it that color. WRONG.

   Good luck.

   Peter

1. 
   peiff | Feb 22, 2008 11:00pm | #2

   Peter, thanks for your advice.  Can you define what full strength shellac is.  What we have been using is 2 lb wax free cut.   

    

   Thanks

    

    

1. 
   user-83153 | Feb 24, 2008 12:01am | #3

   I'm thinking that Peter is assuming you are using Zinsser Sealcoat in which case a 2# cut is full strength.

   I'm also one of those purists that doesn't think you should stain or dye cherry. Of course it is a matter of taste, but to my eye the color of aged cherry can't be improved upon, and someone who may not have the skill level that Peter has might not even get close. Besides it is going to get darker whether you color it or not, you may end up with something that is darker than you want, so factor that in. I also like to watch the cherry change color on its own.

                         Rob

1. 
   peter28 | Feb 24, 2008 02:19am | #4

   Rob,

   We'll need to call this the P & R column pretty soon.

   Cherry often needs a boost to give it some life so you don't need to wait a long time.

   The skill level involved is really not that much to be perfectly honest. It's just a matter of playing with dyes a little.

   The class I'm doing right now; I have a couple of students who just went through a class at the same place building a small table out of cherry. The director of the school was the instructor and WHOA TO ANYONE THAT WANTED TO PUT ANYTHING BUT OIL ON THEIR PROJECT.

   Then I got them. They couldn't believe how easy it was to really put a glow to the wood. It's not a major change mind you just some makeup.

    Do you like an attractive woman with subtle makeup on? Or should she be absolutely natural and insist that she go without.

   Needless to say the students far preferred a subtle change.

   You like to watch the change in the wood. I wish I had that much time on my hands. Next you'll tell me you watch the grass grow:)

   Just to throw one more wrench in the works, I have a cherry table that sits in a western window, with an oil finish on it and it has faded considerably in the back part that gets bathed in sun. Figure that one out.

   Peter

1. 
   user-83153 | Feb 25, 2008 03:26am | #6

   Hi Peter,

   No, No, it's still in the ask the experts section of the forum, so it will continue to be called the Peter Gedrys' column. Now if they change the title to "Ask the experts and the opinionated jerks forum" , I'll be right here for ya'.

   You know, I just stop by every once in a while to make sure you are staying on your toes and to stir up the pot a little.

   In response to your other questions and comments...

   1. Either natural or with subtle makeup is fine with me, with the occasional tart slathered up like a street walker thrown in for variety.

   2. I like to watch the grass grow much more than I like to mow it. That statement is not a metaphor for anything involving finishing cherry. It is simply a comment on my lazy nature.

   3. I can't explain your fading cherry table. Maybe to much of a good thing?

                        Rob

    

2. 
   peter28 | Feb 25, 2008 06:44am | #7

   Rob,

   You're hardly an opinionated jerk. That mantle has already been claimed by another.

   Your opinion is always welcome. Someone like you keeps things sharp. Can I get off my toes now?

   PG 

2. 
   peter28 | Feb 25, 2008 12:42am | #5

   The shellac I spoke of was the SealCoat. It is a great product. I assume that is what you are using

   Now I don't have to make my own blonde shellac anymore.

   Peter