Several years ago I made a lightbox. It was the my first experience with
woodworking. I got some tips from the shop where I purchased the wood (not
in the USA) but have since forgotten the steps...I was able to get a
satin/waxy/matte finish by hand.
I was very happy with the results and want to make another one...
What I remember:
I used a maple plywood...
I "think" I used some kind of oil for a very light natural staining... (any
suggestions?)
I then used varying grades of sandpaper...
Then again I "think" I melted paraffin wax, poured it directly onto the
surface, then sprinkled pumice powder on that...then rubbed it onto the
surface in small areas with a rag or something...
Does this sound right? How about the order of the steps? Are there any other
materials/tech that you would recommend? I read about "Rotten Stone" - what
does that do?
I see that pumice is sold in solid bars - how is it used or should I stick
to the powder?
Thanks for the help...
RR wrote:
> I was very happy with the results and want to make another one...
>
> What I remember:
>
> I used a maple plywood...
> I "think" I used some kind of oil for a very light natural staining... (any
> suggestions?)
My guess would be "Boiled Linseed Oil"
> I then used varying grades of sandpaper...
> Then again I "think" I melted paraffin wax, poured it directly onto the
> surface, then sprinkled pumice powder on that...then rubbed it onto the
> surface in small areas with a rag or something...
Are you sure you didn't dissolve shellac flakes in alcohol for this process?
> Does this sound right? How about the order of the steps? Are there any other
> materials/tech that you would recommend?
Pumice is often used with shellac to fill the pores of the wood. Once the pores
are filled additional coats of shellac are added without using the pumice. Do a
"Google" search for "French Polish".
> I read about "Rotten Stone" - what does that do?
It's an abrasive powder finer than pumice used to "rub out" a finish after the
final coat has been applied and allowed to cure.
> I see that pumice is sold in solid bars - how is it used or should I stick
> to the powder?
Stick with the powder. It comes in various grades, "F" through "FFFF" with
"FFFF" being the finest.
--
Jack Novak
Buffalo, NY - USA
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