[Woodcarver] FINISHING QUESTION

[KnifeCut at aol.com]

In a message dated 2/22/2004 8:35:11 PM Eastern Standard Time, 
SantaCarvinLady at aol.com writes:

> I guess that depends on what kind of finish you want to end up with.     If 
> you use an undercoat or sealer before painting, your paint will sit on top 
> of the wood, covering it up.   Some prefer that look, especially if the wood 
> isn't very nice-looking.      I'm just the opposite, though - I prefer to see 
> the wood and whatever grain is showing, so I don't use a sealer first.  

If you want to see the grain use one or two coats of de-waxed Shellac (mix 
50/50 with denatured alcohol and let sit in a bottle, the wax will settle to the 
bottom, don't shake (or thin some sanding sealer)) to seal the wood lightly 
but still allow some penetration (if in doubt rub the last coat of shellac 
lightly with a white 3M pad or steel wool).  This will allow you to use thinned 
acrylic that will lightly soak into the wood evenly, even at the end grain.

Use gesso if you don't want the grain to show.

Both will give a base for the acrylic to hold onto.

Mike Parker
Montclair, Va
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