Staining/Finishing all sides of large item

[ryan paulsen]

I am getting ready to finish a large slab of White Oak that I will be using as a mantle. The slab is 4" x ~13" (live edge) x 60". I plan on staining, then finishing with Watco Danish Oil. Am I better off staining each face individually? Would I be better off trying to stand this thing on its back and working that way? Thanks for the help guys.

-Ryan

[glenn bradley]

Large flat surfaces are easier if they are facing up. However, with penetrating oil finishes there is little chance of pooling or runs if you are reasonably cautious. I would apply the no-show side and deal with it to the point where I don't have to go back to rub off finish or deal with weeping. I would them raise the piece with the no-show side down (painter's pyramids, nail board, whatever) and finish all the rest. Others will have different approaches.

[Jamie Buxton]

You can temporarily screw feet to the back edge -- just a couple of 1x4 scraps -- so the slab stands easily. Then you can deal with the five remaining sides all at the same time.

[Sam Murdoch]

Large flat surfaces are easier if they are facing up. However, with penetrating oil finishes there is little chance of pooling or runs if you are reasonably cautious. I would apply the no-show side and deal with it to the point where I don't have to go back to rub off finish or deal with weeping. I would them raise the piece with the no-show side down (painter's pyramids, nail board, whatever) and finish all the rest. Others will have different approaches.

Yes to this technique - I am currently doing the very same thing on some slab side board tops.