FINISHING RECOMMENDATIONS FOR COHASSET COLONIALS KIT FURNITURE

HARD FINISH

Solvent Based Polyurethane. Traditional solvent based polyurethanes are probably the most durable finish available to our customers who will be applying their finish with a brush. We recommend that when you go to your paint or hardware store that you ask for the best quality, low luster or satin finish that they carry. Do not skimp on the quality, inexpensive brands are harder to apply, are less durable, and will not have a quality look. Solvent based polyurethanes will impart a golden or yellowish tint giving the final finish a warm tone. Follow the directions on the can exactly, and use a high quality natural bristle brush. Be sure to wear gloves, and work in a well ventilated area. If you sand between coats, follow the sanding with a tack cloth to remove the dust, etc.
Recommend Brand: ZAR polyurethane, made by United Gilsonite Laboratories.

Water Based Finishes. Water based finishes are relatively new to the market, and many provide a quality finish. The advantages of water based finishes are that they are usually less toxic, have less odor, and brushes clean up with soap and water. Most tend to be "water clear" and do not impart the warm golden tone which solvent based finishes often do. Follow the directions on the can exactly. Many water based finishes are best applied with a nylon bristle brush. Don't use a tack cloth if sanding between coats. Use a lint free cloth dampened with water.
Recommended Brand: Elite Diamond Finish, made by Varathane.

Shellac. Shellac is a very traditional time tested finish. In the hands of an expert, and applied with a technique called "French Polishing" it produces the very highest quality finish. However, if you are not an expert, it can often result in an uneven finish with runs and sags. Shellac finishes will be easily marred by alcohol, and they are not resistant to water. It is best applied in thin coats with a fine, natural bristle brush, rubbing out the finish with steel wool between coats. After rubbing out the finish with steel wool, be sure to use a tack cloth to remove the steel wool particles. Work in a well ventilated area. Use orange shellac over dark stains and dark colored woods. Use white shellac over light stains and light colored woods.
Recommend Brand: Bulls Eye Shellac, made by Zinsser.

Natural Resin Varnishes. Natural resin varnishes are very traditional finishes. They are not often used today because of cost, difficulty in application, and long drying times. If you want to expend the effort and care needed when applying these finishes the result can be beautiful and durable. A fine, natural bristle brush is necessary when applying these finishes. They need to be sanded between coats, and the final coat rubbed out with pumice and rotten stone.
Recommended Brand: Rockhard Table Top Varnish, made by Behlen Co. Available through Woodcraft Supply 1-800-535-4486.

See information sheet on oil and wax finishes.