Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Jan 26, 2007 03:28pm | #1

   You definately want to use boiled linseed oil, BLO.  It takes several days to cure sufficiently to be overcoated with most finishes, raw linseed oil would take considerably longer.  It definately does "pop" figure, though the difference between it and other oil based finishes, either oil/varnish mixes, or oil based varnish will be subtle. 

   Single part poly isn't a good finish to use for any purpose except floors and (perhaps) work tables.  It is softer, and more difficult to rub out evenly than traditional resin varnish as well as being more finicky as to to what it will adhere.  Applied in a thick enough coating give its full protective benefits it's slight cloudiness gives the "plastic" look that many find unattractive.  The principal benefit over the traditional resin varnish is abrasion resistence.  Otherwise, traditional resin varnish will provide substantially similar durability properties. 

1. 
   bret | Jan 26, 2007 11:11pm | #4

   Thanks very much for your advice much appreciated.

   Regards

   Bret

1. 
   Omah | Jan 27, 2007 01:24am | #5

   Carefull with those rags they will burst into flames,Spontaneous combustion.

2. 
   PCM | Jan 26, 2007 04:46pm | #2

   Bret,

   Definetly use boiled linseed (BLO)-it will dry eventually (maybe a few days). I mix BLO with about 25% turpentine-true turp, not synthetic-, and wetsand in with 400 or 600 grit W/S paper. This will penetrate wood, turp evaporates, leaving BLO in wood, not just on top. Wipe off slurry.

   I then use shellac (1 or 2# cut) to ensure that any topcoat will properly adhere. I usually use 2 coats  of Minwax gloss poly, 1 coat of Minwax semi-gloss or satin (depends on final sheen desired). Proper prep of wood and sanding in between coats of poly is very important. Any topcoat should be as fresh as possible-dig out all the cans at the store and compare manuf. dates.

   Pete

   I should have said dewaxed shellac-Zinnser sells Bullseye, dewaxed seal coat.

   
   

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   Edited 1/26/2007 8:52 am ET by PCM

1. 
   Elcoholic | Jan 26, 2007 09:11pm | #3

   Ditto except I mix 1:1 BLO & Paint Thinner and add a shot or two of Japan Drier to speed things along.  I use w/b poly topcoats over the shellac barrier coats.John O'Connell - JKO Handcrafted Woodworking

   The more things change ...

   We trained hard, but it seemed that every time we were beginning to form up into teams, we would be reorganized.  I was to learn later in life that we tend to meet any new situation by reorganizing; and a wonderful method it can be for creating the illusion of progress while producing confusion, inefficiency, and demoralization.

   Petronious Arbiter, 210 BC