Replies

1. 
   user-148830 | Jun 13, 2008 04:11am | #1

   Hi Gary,
   It depends upon your experience in edge gluing as to how to approach this. I think it's preferable to do it at once. There will be less of an issue of keeping the to-be-glued surfaces clean and unmarred. But the other side of this is the amount of clamps you'll need, how flat they and your work surface is, and how quick you move. If you're using yellow glue, you'll have to hustle a bit to get six boards done, if they are of any length. With larger, wider, and longer glue-ups, I resort to using biscuits to help line up the boards. I don't use them for strength, just for help in lining up surfaces. There's a lot of work to do in a short time so not having to worry about that is a plus.

   So the short answer is, try to glue up all at once if you can manage it. If you can't, then be careful of the edges, use clamping cauls to protect them. And have all your clamps out, ready to go. Good luck, Gary

1. 
   GaryBowen | Jun 16, 2008 06:49pm | #2

   Gary,Thanks for the insightful reply. I had never thought about scarring the glue surfaces during intermediate glue-ups.Often, I use G2 epoxy from Lee Valley. This glue is supposed to have a lot of flex and long open time. The reason I use this glue is due to the long open time.1) Are there reasons not to use epoxy on such a project?
   2) What finishes should I check out if I want a fairly flat look ( like oiled) but would also want to provide good water resistance. This table will be used pretty hard.ThanksGary

1. 
   user-148830 | Jun 17, 2008 01:51am | #3

   Hi Gary,
   No I think the epoxy would work just fine. Particularly if it has a little bit of creep in it. As for finishes, if you want protection, don't use an oil. On the other hand, oils are easy to fix, give a nice matte finish, and go on easy.
   On the other hand, they spot up, look shabby if you're not careful and need a yearly treatment. On the other hand, they can be hand applied, rubbed out simply. On the other hand... You get my drift.If you want a low luster finish, then I'd apply a wiping varnish like Daly's Pro-fin and then rub it out after the finish has cured. More work, better protection. Good luck with your project. Gary