Helpful finishing hints for dummies like me

[Minnesota scroller]

I found this info on finishing quite educational.

http://www.memphishardwoodlumber.com/hints_on_finishing_wood_article_.htm

[Daryl185]

excellent web site Mike thanks for posting it

[workin for wood]

I picked up some high speed buffer wheels for the foredom power carver...those really help with that final waxing step..takes it even just a little bit further. but don't wax your furniture, that's the number one cause for water rings.

[Bill Wilson]

Good article!

One thing I've been doing lately, but didn't see mentioned in this article, is to pour small amounts of finish from the can into another container. Work from the other container and close the can as soon as possible. I give it a little shot of propane from a plumbers torch (just the gas, not the flame ) just before sealing the lid down. This accomplishes 2 things, it prevents the varnish/poly from being exposed to oxygen too long and starting to cure in the can and prevents contaminates from being introduced back into the can from your brush. I also tend to thin my varnish at least 20% - 50% depending on whether or not I'm brushing or wiping it on.

I still have problems with the fast dry varnishes starting to set up on me before I'm done. It's difficult to keep a wet edge, especially since I'm trying to brush it slowly to get a nice even/smooth application. Thinning it helps, but hasn't been the total solution for me.

[workin for wood]

That's an interesting idea using propane. I'd love to see what happens with the flame on. Perhaps I can get my alcoholic neighbor to perform that experiment...in his barn, not mine.

[ceeya]

i really am a nub(noob) at finishing. i have been working with 1/4 poplar wood on my last portrait. to keep it simple......would i just need a stain and wax to finish it? or a wax that has stain or color? Can someone please give me a wax or stain brand name.........appreciate your help.....joe

how would you finish this?

[Bill Wilson]

In general poplar doesn't take the oil based pigmented stain (such as Minwax) very well. It tends to blotch, so you need to either apply a pre-stain conditioner or use a different method of staining, like a dye. Trouble with most detailed scroll work is that it's tough to get stain on all the cut edges and in all the tight corners without dipping it or spraying it.

In your case, the light colored poplar contrasts nicely with the dark background. I would leave the color natural and apply a couple coats of clear finish. For scroll work, the spray cans are easier than brushing or wiping on a finish because you can get better coverage and avoid lap marks, brush marks, puddling, etc.

[ceeya]

thanks, can you tell me a brand of spray clear coat or a link to where i can purchase it? i want to make sure i am getting the right product. appreciate your help...joe

[lucky788scroller]

I would try Deft Clear semigloss wood finish. Aerosol can, follow lable. Its avail at most big box stores and wally world as well. Dale