View Full Version : New member, newbie questions
Mark Hudson
03-05-2007, 8:51 PM
Hello to all. I'm new here, and also fairly new to woodworking. My grandfather was a woodworker, but he died in 1985 (I was 6). Fastforward to 6 months ago, when my parents bought the house he lived in from my grandmother, along with his woodworking shop.
I've been "playing" in the shop, practicing on the lathe and bandsaw mostly. I started working on my first actual project (other than a few simple shelves), a coffee table, a few days ago. So, on to my question: Im wondering what sort of finish to use. I want something durable, in a finish thats more flat than glossy. All I've used previously is poly, but I find it somewhat difficult to get an even finish. I thought about using Waterlox, but thoughts I'd solicit opinions from all you experts out there. Would that be a good option? Other opinions?
Thanks for all the wealth of information available here, I love just reading old posts for info, as well as looking at some of your amazing finished projects for inspiration. Thanks in advance for any answers-
Jim Becker
03-05-2007, 8:54 PM
Mark, welcome to SMC!!
Normally, I'd move this thread to the Finishing Forum, but since it's your introduction, I'll just put a copy of it there so folks can get to know you.
Waterlox would be a nice finish to work with as it's easy to apply and ISN'T poly...something that counts in my book. LOL!
Steve Schoene
03-05-2007, 9:29 PM
I'll second Jim on two counts. First, welcome. Second, Waterlox would be a good easy finish for your project that will yield high quality results. It's a good tough (phenolic/tung) varnish and comes in three gloss levels. There is a Gloss which is pretty shiney, the Original/Sealer which is called medium gloss by the company (I call it mellow) and there is Satin. I really like the look of the Original/Sealer.
Eric Wong
03-06-2007, 12:57 AM
How have you been applying the poly? Many people hate poly because of the "plastic look", but I've found that if you thin it 50/50 with naphtha then wipe it on with a rag you can get a more natural look and very even coating. Also, the naphtha evaporates very quickly so dust doesn't have a chance to settle into the finish. 3 or 4 wipe-on coats usually does it.
Joe Chritz
03-06-2007, 8:45 AM
You can get good finish with poly (Eric's method is a very good one) but there are so many other good options that I would recommend looking for something else.
You already have one of the top wipe on choices in mind with the waterlox.
You would not be disappointed.
Welcome
Joe
Ken Fitzgerald
03-06-2007, 9:26 AM
Welcome to the Creek Mark! Wade right in the water's fine.
Jerry Olexa
03-06-2007, 3:01 PM
Welcome: I agree that poly is not one of my favorites. Other alternatives are as above plus Pratt and lambert#38 or if major durability is not an issue, try padding on some shellac. Quick, easy and easily repaired.
Mark Hudson
03-06-2007, 3:47 PM
thanks for the welcome guys. I've applied the poly with a foam brush, not diluted whatsoever. I tried to stay with the piece to ensure the poly didn't run/pool on me, but it seemed there was always an area I missed. I think I'll go with the Waterlox on the project to see what kind of results it gives me. Any hints to application, or should I simply follow the instructions on the container?
Dennis Peacock
03-06-2007, 6:22 PM
Welcome to SMC Mark. Glad to have ya around. I would agree with Jim Becker on this as well.
Mark Hudson
03-07-2007, 5:48 PM
Alright, I wrapped up the construction phase of my coffee table this afternoon, and will be applying my first coat of Waterlox this evening or in the morning. Thanks again for the suggestions, it will be interesting to see how this turns out (if it turns out at all).
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