Tip #44
Finishing Touches
Part 4 of 6 - Applying A Synthetic Finish (continued)
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Pouring

A few synthetic finishes -- called catalytic finishes -- are meant to be poured over a project, rather than brushed or rubbed on. These finishes come in two parts -- a resin and a catalyst (or “hardener”) and must be mixed together in order for the finish to harden.

The advantage of these finishes is that they can be applied to any surface, no matter how rough, as long as that surface is dry and free of all grease or oil. You can even imbed objects in these finishes -- coins -- cards -- documents -- mementos -- but once again, these objects must be dry and clean. As the catalytic finish is poured on, it will flow into all cracks and surface imperfections, surround and cover objects to be imbedded, then level itself out and dry to a crystal-clear, high-gloss, glass-like smoothness.

Use these catalytic finishes in a well ventilated room. Often, the fumes given off as they dry are highly toxic. Mix only as much as you need precisely according to the directions on he container and pour it over the project immediately. The surface to be covered should be level and facing up. If there are several surfaces to be covered, do just one at a time. Often, a project may have to be tilted this way and that to get the finish to spread out, but it should always be returned to level to allow it to dry.

From time-to-time, bubbles will appear in the finish as you pour. Before the finish hardens, lightly blow across the surface.This will cause the bubbles to rise to the surface.

Remember that catalytic finishes harden quickly and need no second coats or exhaustive rubbing after they set up. Rubbing or sanding will, in fact, cloud them. Wax may slightly improve their appearance, but this is seldom necessary.

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