Replies

1. 
   ak | Jul 29, 2008 04:45am | #1

   Well, by "repairable" I take it you would like a finish that can be touched up and rejuvenated over the years. Here's a recipie my teacher gave me years ago. It''s durable, easy to apply, and can quickly be repaired.

   1 part oil based varnish (not polyurethane)

   1 part boiled linseed oil

   1 part true spirits of turpentine (it smells better than turpentaine)

   Mix these equal parts in a glass jar. You now have a wiping varnish.

   The first coat is a flood coat. Keep applying until the finish stops soaking in to the pores of the wood. Wait about 10 minutes then wipe off the excess with a clean rag until no more finish comes off on the rag.

   Let dry overnight and then apply an even second coat. (You don't have to flood the surface anymore)

   Wait ten minutes and wipe off excess.

   Sand with 400 between each coat after the second one.

   Since it's a dining table I would do at least four to six coats.

   Hope this helps!

2. 
   Gretchen | Jul 29, 2008 03:08pm | #2

   A good finish of wipe on varnish will give a very durable finish for a table, even if heavily used. Use good quality non-poly varnish and apply 8-10 coats for the top.

    

   Gretchen
1. 
   BioHaz1906 | Jul 29, 2008 04:12pm | #3

   I second that notion and I'm thinking Waterlox.

   Bio

1. 
   FFsthomas | Jul 29, 2008 05:09pm | #4

   Thank you all for your responses I will give that a try..