I am ready to finish the figured bubinga 1/2 round table and have not yet decided on a finish. I tried 2 samples Water based poly and tung oil. I want to use a finish which will be hard and will hold up to water stains and the like.
And I have two days to complete the finish.
I have used water based poly on most of my pieces and have been successful rubbing it out. I have only used tung oil once on a fireplace mantle which doesn’t get any real abuse.
In looking through Jewitt’s book there isn’t any real comparison of finish characterics like hardness, resistance to water, chemicals etc in one place which would be useful. Anyone know where something like this exists?
Now for the real question: What do you think would be a good finish for this piece?
Replies
Spray 10 coats or more of lacquer.
Jackplane,
I don't spray equiptment. Can I use brushing lacquor?
ASK
You have only two days to finish the finish. So use what you know. This isn't a time to learn something else.
by the way.....the lacquer won't cure in only two days
Thanks Sophie,
I put 6 coats of water based poly on about 250 SF of a new oak kitchen floor in two days about a year ago and a contractor who was doing some roofing work for me thought is was prefinished flooring. I guess going with what you know makes sense.
If it comes out looking good, I'll post it here.
ASK
Ask,
A tung oil finish will give very little protection according to the needs you've expressed. It would be beautiful if the piece were not going to receive any use.
Both varnish and lacquer are far superior, and for abrasion resistance, the poly is the hardest.
Go with what you know. Done right, a water based poly can be rubbed out to as beautiful a finish as any varnish. And it will give real protection. But I don't think you need to put down 6 coats!
VL
Venicia L,
Thanks, I think I've decided on the poly and rubbing it out, but I have until Saturday to decide.
ASK
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