Replies

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 29, 2007 04:10pm | #1

   Sanding sealer is not needed for any varnish, and if used under polyurethane type varnish must be specifically specified--by name by the poly manufacturer.  Sanding sealer is mostly a time saver in production situations, except for a few specialty finishes which require a particular sealer.  If needed, that need will be very clearly stated in the manufacturer's literature.  An example is vinyl sealer used under conversion varnish. 

   Dewaxed shellac can be used under polyurethane and other finishes, but is only needed when there is an incompatible stain or the like that needs to be separated from the top coat. 

   More specifics about the project and it's intended usage would help define the situation.   

   
   

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   Edited 8/29/2007 9:12 am ET by SteveSchoene

1. 
   Zappa | Aug 30, 2007 02:38am | #2

   bascically I was thinking about using baltic birtch for some projects that were going to be used to help the wife organize her scrapebook stickers. I was going to use 1/4 inch Baltic Birtch for the dividers and the box to keep them in. I was also going to use ink stamps to lable each file the go on with the finnish so after I put the lable on I would not be able to sand it... Make sence??? 

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Aug 30, 2007 05:05am | #3

   For the components that will come in contact with the scrap book items--the dividers and box interiors the hands down finish of choice is shellac.  It won't have lingering odor and it will block wood and adhesive fumes from the plywood that might cause paper or fabric items to yellow and have a shorter life if that's a consideration.  It's also quick and easy. 

   Exteriors of the boxes can be coated with any finish, though shellac would work well for these as well. 

    

    

    

1. 
   WillGeorge | Sep 05, 2007 03:58am | #4

   and box interiors the hands down finish of choice is shellac..I agree. However I have used a wipe on Poly (Minwax?) over it with no ill Effects Affects? Whatever

1. 
   SteveSchoene | Sep 05, 2007 05:11am | #6

   The poly is OK for the exteriors over dewaxed shellac.  While the poly may adhere enough to get buy over shellac with wax on occasion, it shouldn't be counted upon.  Next time you might find a poly that comes off in sheets after a year or two. 

   But for interiors of boxes that will house paper or fabric some poly gives off undesirable fumes that over the years can excessively age the paper or fabric.  Shellac,  is about the only widely available finish suitable for archival storage.  These are not effects you would expect to see in a few months but over years--such as would be the case for keepsakes you want your grandchildren show their kids. 

2. 
   KiddervilleAcres | Sep 05, 2007 04:03am | #5

   If these compartments are going to be small, I might suggest finishing B4 assembly if at all possible.

   Regards,

   Bob @ Kidderville Acres

    

   A Woodworkers mind should be the sharpest tool in the shop!

   Edited 9/4/2007 9:03 pm ET by KiddervilleAcres