Fine Woodworking

[TV]

The latest magazine came out and there is an article in it about a mixed finish utilizing varnish, tung oil, turpentine and japan drier. The article states it is good for regular use items and makes repair easier than say a poly finish.

I am working on a kitchen island/high table (top of table is jeff's spalted maple and walnut) and originally was going to use poly for the finish. After reading the article I am beginning to lean toward's it. Any thoughts, comments suggestions? I want something that will stand up to use but provide if the finish gets dinged or marked up will allow for easier touch up.

Thanks for any comments.

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[Howard Acheson]

You might want to look in on these threads from other forums. They somewhat digress later in the threads but they will answer your questions.

Personally, I see no advantages over standard wipe-on varnish or oil/varnish mixtures.

http://www.sawmillcreek.org/showthread.php?t=81830

http://forums.taunton.com/fw-knots/messages?msg=41228.1

 

[Alan in Little Washington]

There are a couple of "mixes or home brews" being used by various woodworkers. Sam Maloof uses one I think that is comprised of 1/3 varnish or poly, 1/3 BLO, and 1/3 naptha. Probably the best sources about these are books by Jeff Jewitt, Micheal Dresdner, or Bob Flexner. Jeff Jewitt's Homestead Finishing website has a rundown of all the various commercially available finishes, but I couldn't find anything there about "home brews".

 

[TV]

Thanks for the info and the links.

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