Here’s a great gift idea! Save 31 percent on Flexner’s latest must-have book on finishing. Wood finishing doesn’t have to be complicated or confusing. It can be “boiled down” to simple step-by-step instructions. And that’s what this book offers; no science, no art, just easily-to-follow directions with lots of pictures to show you every step … Read more
The answer is “no.” What’s the question? “Doesn’t (oil, tallow, paraffin, beeswax, snake squeezins, earwax, monkey fat) interfere with finishing?” Still, the answer is “no” – unless you are using some wacky exotic ingredient, or you are rubbing it on like butter. I know that it’s almost impossible to prove a negative, so permit me … Read more
Grab your torch and pitchfork, people. Though I am a big fan of handwork, traditional construction methods and old stuff in general, I am a slave to modern spray finishing methods. I first learned how to apply finish with a brush and a rag. And I was never entirely happy with the results. Then, when … Read more
Wiping varnish is simply any brand of oil-based alkyd (regular) varnish or oil-based polyurethane varnish in any sheen (gloss or satin) thinned about half with mineral spirits (paint thinner). Rules for Application ■ Wipe or brush on the wood and ■ Wipe off all the excess; or ■ Brush off some or most of the … Read more
In the November 2011 issue, Bob Flexner submitted this excerpt from his book “Wood Finishing 101,” along with the article on wiping varnish. It is a useful document that you can post in your shop. To download the PDF, click on the link below.
–Ajax Alexandre
Quartersawn white oak begs for a fumed finish just as was used on many original Stickley projects. Learn the steps to a traditional finish process. Read more
Four short (but crucial) finishing subjects.
By Bob Flexner
Pages: 58-60
From the October 2011 issue #192
Buy the issue now
What follows are four concise – but important – finishing topics about which you’ve likely wondered.
1 – Metamerism
Most of us have experienced a situation where we finish a project in our shop or garage to the exact color we want, only to discover that the color isn’t right when we move the project into the house (or to a client’s location). The explanation is the phenomenon of “metamerism.” The lighting is different in the two locations.
ARTICLES: You’ll find many finishing articles free on our web site.
TO BUY: Get Bob Flexner’s new, comprehensive book, “Flexner on Finishing.”
TO BUY: If you don’t have any finishing experience, you need Bob’s latest book, “Wood Finishing 101.”
From the October 2011 issue #192
Buy the issue now
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