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https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl DIY Forum >> Carpentry Questions >> Finish for meranti table... https://www.askthetrades.co.uk/cgi-bin/yabb/YaBB.pl?num=1090453236 Message started by Doc on Jul 22^nd, 2004, 12:40am

Title: Finish for meranti table...
Post by Doc on Jul 22^nd, 2004, 12:40am

Could anyone suggest a finish for a table I'm in the process of finishing off - it's a Shaker style hall table but I've changed the traditional design from straight tapered legs to a slightly curved profile on the inside of the legs.. and as per topic it's made from meranti.

On a few scraps I've tested various finishes but am not happy with any of them.. Suggestions plz, and I'm looking for a fairly light finish, definately not mahogany! Have ran out of Danish oil or I'd have tried that..... Looking for something to make the piece look old but warm at same time, a bit like button polish (my French polishing skills are good enough to totally spoil the job so plz don't suggest French/Button polishing)...

WD40 doesn't seem to work the same :p

Mike.

Title: Re: Finish for meranti table...
Post by jasonB on Jul 22^nd, 2004, 7:45am

Meranti is one of the worst hardwoods to get a decent finish on due to its open grain and the amount of surface plecking that you get (lifting of fibres).

I would suggest wetting the surface after initial sanding to raise the grain then sanding again to 320grit. Apply 2 coats of celulose sanding sealer possibly thinning the first and rubbing down between coats. You could then finish with water bourne acrylic lacqer.

Jason

Title: Re: Finish for meranti table...
Post by Doc on Jul 22^nd, 2004, 10:26pm

Will follow your advice, thanks.