Thread: Smooth gloss finish on wood scales?

Hi Guys,

I have been working on some wood scales recently and have problems with getting a smooth glossy finish when applying the clear acrylic coat. I am using a Marine Grade clear acrylic and usually apply 4 coats.
The coats are applied undiluted using a fine bristle paint brush as I don't have access to an air compressor or spray paint setup.
The issue I have is that the brush leaves a lot of streaking when applying the finish. Once it dries (about 4 hours waiting time), I then try to remove the streaks with 1000 grit wet/dry sand paper (Norton). This often causes another problem in that it is very easy to remove too much of the clear coat and take it back to bare wood. It seems that as I try to get that smooth finish on each coat, I do more harm than good on the job.
A couple of ideas have come to mind -
1 using a much finer grade of wet/dry like 2500 grit (not sure if it is available in Australia)
2 Break down the clear acrylic with something to make it thinner to apply and hopefully flow on better
3 Using a spray can of clear coat (not an option I like - too expensive)

Can any of the members chime in with their ideas thoughts or experiences with this?
Thanks in advance

maybe i shouldnt comment cause i havnt tried the acrylic coat on wood but i have done a few in the CA glue finish ..i dont remember how many coats i did but it felt like a ton with lots of sanding , i wonder if anything in the "how to " section about the CA glue could translate over to the finish that you are using ?

i also wonder if by wearing a rubber glove you could apply it and eliminate the brush marks ? forgive me again as i know nothing about the acrylic finish as if that could even be done ..lol..

Thanks for the reply Gooser. It seems when I read about the CA glue it is a pour on solution, is this correct?
To use the Acrylic this way could lead to a high waste level which i would like to avoid.

Maybe a pour on 2 part epoxy would work OK, but again there is the possible wastage to think about. I think I read once it is mixed there is a fairly short period of time where it remains in a state where it can be poured, then it begins to harden. Again I am not sure about this. Any more experienced members please chime in with your thoughts or suggestions.

Thanks in advance

I have found that using polyurethane works and is easier. I start with a wood sealer, sometimes two to three coats ,light sanding between coats. then on to four to five coats of high gloss, sanding between coats, 400 grit wet. Then buff or use a plastic polish.
http://straightrazorpalace.com/attac...ales-msgt4.jpg
hope this helps.

V/R
Tim

Instead of sandpaper try using 0000 steel wool.
For streaking issues, I'd switch to a sponge brush or a rag for applying the finish.

I would apply one coat and let it sit for 24 hours then try sanding, if the problem persists wait longer, the finish needs enough time to cure in order to be hard enough to withstand sanding. Lots of thin coats is better than a couple thick coats. You may want to try lacquer or a wiping varnish instead, if not thin out your finish a little so it flows better should help get your brush marks to lay down better. Sanding between coats will also help you get a more consistent thickness of finish and will also make if flatter, which is the most important thing when it comes to a good finishing job. Good luck.

You may want to search "French polish", if anything it will give you something to think about.

Just don't sand after every coat. Put on two or three, than try to sand it a bit with fine sandpaper. I usually apply a few coats until the pores are filled, and I have a nice even coat, sand a bit, than apply one or two finishing coats, sand very lightly with 2500 grit paper, than buff. It is important to let it dry totally, or you will have problems all over. Water based stuff takes some time to cure even after it looks dry, and feels try to the touch.

Originally Posted by RickyBeeroun222

It seems when I read about the CA glue it is a pour on solution, is this correct?

NOPE...

http://straightrazorpalace.com/works...ints-tips.html

BEST CA glue tutorial out there.

Do what you've gotta do, but CA is not (IMO?) a wood finish.

Originally Posted by holli4pirating

Do what you've gotta do, but CA is not (IMO?) a wood finish.

And the smell... Stopped using it because of it, and I don't think its too healthy for you to breathe it in.