73 - Coloring/Staining Blotchy Woods

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares practical tips for finishing wood surfaces, focusing on the importance of sealing the wood before applying top coats. They recommend using Shellac as a fast-drying, hard-sealing option to prevent excessive absorption of expensive finishes. The speaker also discusses how different woods, particularly those prone to blotching, can respond uniquely to oil-based finishes. While blotching can be seen as a flaw, it can also add texture and depth to the wood's appearance, depending on personal taste. The advice is rooted in balancing speed, quality, and aesthetics in woodworking finishes.

Takeaways

• 😀 Using a sealer helps prevent excessive absorption of topcoats into wood, leading to a more efficient finish process.
• 😀 A normal wiping varnish or diluted polyurethane can serve as an effective sealer for wood surfaces.
• 😀 Shellac is preferred by some woodworkers because it dries quickly, hardens well, and allows for faster topcoat application.
• 😀 Sealing wood with Shellac can minimize blotching and reduce the need for excessive use of expensive topcoat materials.
• 😀 The purpose of sealing is to create a smooth surface and prevent the wood from sucking in too much finish.
• 😀 Blotching in wood finishes can add texture and depth, which may be seen as a desirable aesthetic for some people.
• 😀 Not all woods will experience blotching, but it's a common concern when using oil-based finishes.
• 😀 Some people may appreciate blotching as it gives wood a 3D appearance, while others may prefer to avoid it.
• 😀 Using a sealer like Shellac can speed up the finishing process by providing a solid base layer.
• 😀 Applying a diluted or light coat of sealer before sanding ensures that the wood surface is even and consistent for final finishing.

Q & A

What is the purpose of sealing wood before applying a finish?

Sealing the wood helps create a barrier that prevents the wood from absorbing too much finish. This allows the finish to go on more evenly and reduces the need for excessive topcoats.

Can I use regular varnish or polyurethane as a sealer?

Yes, you can use normal wiping varnish or polyurethane diluted slightly as a sealer. It works just as well as a dedicated sealer and allows you to get started with the finishing process.

Why does the speaker prefer using Shellac as a sealer?

Shellac dries very quickly and forms a hard surface, making it an ideal choice for sealing. This allows the initial coat to cure fast, so more expensive topcoats can be applied with less material needed.

How does using Shellac affect the amount of topcoat needed?

Since Shellac prevents the wood from absorbing too much finish, less of the topcoat material is required. The wood is sealed, and the topcoats go on more smoothly.

What should you do after applying a light sealer coat?

After applying the sealer, you should let it cure and then sand the surface smooth before applying the full-strength topcoats.

What causes blotching in wood, and how can it be avoided?

Blotching occurs when wood absorbs finish unevenly. To avoid it, you can seal the wood first, which reduces the absorption rate and creates a smoother surface for the finish.

Can blotching in wood ever be a good thing?

In some cases, blotching can add texture and depth to the wood, giving it a more three-dimensional appearance. It all depends on personal preference and how the blotching is perceived.

Why is it important to seal wood even if you're not coloring it?

Sealing the wood before applying a finish ensures a smoother and more consistent surface. Even if you're not coloring the wood, a sealer helps prevent uneven absorption and makes the finishing process easier.

Is it necessary to use expensive materials for topcoats?

Expensive materials are not always necessary. By using a sealer first, you can apply less expensive topcoats because the wood will not absorb them as much, making the process more efficient and cost-effective.

What is the recommended procedure for applying a finish to wood?

The procedure involves sealing the wood first, either with Shellac or a diluted varnish. Then, allow it to cure, sand it smooth, and finally apply your full-strength topcoats to build up the finish.