Tip #43
Finishing Touches
Part 3 of 6 - Applying A Natural Finish (continued)
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Varnish

For years, varnish has been the mainstay of wood finishers and refinishers. It's made from a variety of tree resins, blended with drying oils. The resulting finish is harder than shellac, less finicky than lacquer and can be used on a variety of applications.

When using varnishes, it's important that you take great care in preparing the surface prior to application. Wash the project down with benzene to remove all traces of grease and dirt. If you've stained the wood, apply a wash coat of shellac and alcohol and sand lightly with 5/0 garnet sandpaper. Wipe thoroughly with a tack cloth.

Brush the varnish on across the grain in long strokes. Wipe the excess varnish out of the brush and go over the surface again with the grain. Wipe the brush again and go over the surface once again with the grain, this time, using the tip of the brush to smooth the varnish. Allow to dry for six hours, then sand lightly with 6/0 or 7/0 garnet sandpaper soaked in benzene. Wipe down thoroughly with a tack cloth. Apply successive coats in the same manner as he first.

After the final coat, allow to dry for one to two days. The varnish may look awful, showing marks and dimples, but don't worry, as these can all be rubbed out. Saturate a piece of felt with linseed oil, sprinkle with pumice stone and rub with the grain in long strokes. Wipe and buff with a soft rag.

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