I am building a chimney cupboard out of cedar. This is my first experience with Cedar and I would like to know what finish will retain the colorful fresh milled look, if any. Secondly, what will happen to the color if no finish is applied?
I usually wipe on finishes. I have started learning to spray but don’t know if can trust myself with a piece this big.
I can’t get Town’s name off my question. My handle is woodshoplast.
Edited 8/20/2008 9:31 pm ET by town
Replies
You could leave the cedar alone if you wish. It will slightly oxidize over time but that's it (unless your chimney backs up and belches at some point)
A very clear finish you could brush or wipe on would be clear shellac. Bullseye by Zinseer comes in clear and amber. It is fairly thick at a three pound cut. You can thin it with denatured alcohol. There is a handy guide on the side of the can. The most I would thin it would be 5050. A good starting point could be two parts shellacone part alcohol. Do a couple of practice boards to get a touch that feels good for you.
It will not impart any type of yellowing associated with most oil varnishes. It does dry quickly so be aware.
Two to three coats would be the most you would need IMO
Good luck.
Peter
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