Replies

1. 
   peter28 | May 15, 2008 03:51pm | #1

   If you seal with shellac prior to staining, keep it thin so the oil can penetrate it. Well before you do it for real be sure and make a number of samples. There is nothing worse than using your cabinets for a test bed and realizing it's not right.

   Concerning a finish for kitchen cabinets lacquer would be my first choice. A pre-cat lacquer is pretty easy to use. It will give you good durability, builds quickly and dries fast.

   If you were to go this route use a vinyl sealer instead of shellac as your wash coat prior to staining.

   Another step up in hardness would be a conversion varnish. This essentially sprays like lacquer but you have to add a catalyst to the mix first and it has a limited pot life, usually 24 hours, so good planning is essential. It also builds very quickly.

   A varnish would be a good choice if you didn't have the ability spray. It would give you a durable surface that is simple to repair if required. It is a very slow finish to work with as it's drying time is significantly longer than lacquer.

   I know there are a variety of water based finishes out there, some better than others. I can't give you good counsel on their pros and cons because I have not yet used them to any great degree.

   I was not familiar with timbermate until you brought it up. The best thing to do is your own research. Order a sample and see if it works like they claim it does. There is no better teacher than "time on the tool"

   Don't rush this. Be sure and do some samples, not only for color but finishes also. In the end, you'll be very glad you did.

   Sorry for the delay, my computer was down.

   Peter

1. 
   [email protected] | May 15, 2008 06:09pm | #2

   thanks-will do