I’m a beginner woodturner. Have made several chalices in practicing for this Mahogeny Chalice. My question is once I’ve completed turning the chalice, what is the best finish to put on it to make the Mahogeny really pop. This chalice will be used to drink out of, but rarely, at most twice a year. Any recomendations on what finish, bee’s wax, etc. to use?
Thanks in advance,
John More
Replies
I am NOT a good finisher! That said, I do admit also, that I do not use Mahogeny that often and probably what I used was not the 'good stuff'..
I once used the product ' with results even I thought turned out well?
http://www.pianolac.com/
Now... if we knew how Stineway Piano did their finishes!
http://www.steinway.com/technical/lacquer_finish.shtml
I only put the Stineway in here because of their statement.. "wipe in one direction. Never use a circular motion.' And then again you have a circular object.
Wood prep is the key, I think...
Maybe somebody that is a REAL finisher can respond.
One work I did for family, had a 'clear coat' applied by a local Hot-Rod shop painter.
He did it for free just to try out his skills after working hours.. I handed him $50.00 as a tip.... It was perfect! I have no idea what he used as a filler on the wood. I'd bet most of the work was sprayed on?
John,
You can use one of several products that allow you to finish the chalice quickly and easily right on your lathe. One such finish is Hut Crystal Coat. Since mahogany is an open pore wood, you should apply a coat of Hut Lite first to fill the pores. Remove the excess with 600 sandpaper with the lathe running at slow speed. This will fill the grain and result in a smooth finish. Then apply the Crystal Coat and with the lathe still turning at slow speed, apply a soft, clean cloth and the heat of the friction will bring up a glossy sheen in a few seconds. You don't need any topcoat over it. Crystal Coat is shellac based, but has some petroleum distillates and wax in it as well.
JIm
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