Replies

1. 
   peter28 | Feb 12, 2008 04:22pm | #1

   That is a very broad question.

   My first choice for durability would be a catalyzed lacquer.

   Much of this depends on your abilities.

   A simple process would be to use a dark oil stain, seal it with a coat of shellac, and apply at least three coats of a good varnish like Behlens rockhard. Although they aren't my first choices, you might consider urethane.

   You also may consider staining it twice to increase the color. Another way is to apply a deep colored dye first follow it with your stain and then proceed with the finish.

   What type of oak are you talking about red or white? The pores in red are far more pronounced than in white. That leads to the question of how formal a look you want.

   Stay away from products like poly shades. They are finishes with color added to "simplify" your work. They often leave a very unappealing muddy look.

   Peter

1. 
   veggiefahmah123 | Feb 12, 2008 05:04pm | #2

   This is red oak ply. It does in fact have deep pores. I'll ask my customer whether they want to retain the "feel" of the pores, but..Would filler make the top not only easier to clean,(They have toddlers in the house) but also more durable?

   I'm pretty good with a brush, but over such a large area, maybe using Rock Hard diluted as a wiping varnish, in several coats, would come out better.  Follow all of that with good wax.

   Since I work by word of mouth, and have a patient customer, want to do all I can to end up with a really excellent finish.

   Cabot's has a pamphlet with color chips and sells little samples of different colors so I can get close to what my customer likes. Not that I end up using big box store materials, I'll use the good stuff from Woodcraft or wherever.  So I am still experimenting with colors but think I've decided on a wiping varnish as opposed to tung oil. 

   Thanks to all you guys for all the info. This is a great site, great people. I'll get back on my progress toward a perfect finish.

   Also, I just went and downloaded Dave Shaw's article on catalyzed lacquer. Looks like it need spraying and perfect mixing and a good mask. But if it's the best...

   Tom

   Edited 2/12/2008 9:16 am ET by veggiefahmah123