Thread: Finishing scales question...

Just wondering, why is CA glue so popular for the clear finishing coat when makes scales by hand? Why not just use clear coat spray can, etc? Probably a naive question, but had to ask.

I've only used it to finish small items on my wood lathe but speed would be the primary advantage, you can build up a good coat in a matter of minutes and then polish it to a brilliant shine. Doing that with traditional coatings would take far longer as you have to wait for the solvents to evaporate and the finish to harden. When cured, CA is plain ol' acrylic and polishes well and stands up to lots of house hold chemicals.

Regards

Christian

I prefer antiques wax.
It seals the wood, makes it water repellent (within limits) and you can still feel the wood itself.

On my first set I took the advice of a few guys here and used Renaissance Wax to seal the wood and loved it. Very nice stuff.

I personally like the positive sealing ability and high gloss shine of Poly's but it is true that it takes more time.....

+1 for Poly's and Rennaissance Wax. I use both!

I've never used CA. Seems to me it would cost a lot more considering a tiny thing of Hot Stuff CA costs like $10. How many of those would it take to get a nice finish?

I use tung oil with at least five(5) coats and then finish with Poly and/or butcher's wax. The oil has deep penetration of the wood. I also on occasion use five (5) or six (6) coats of poly. My goal is not speed but lasting protection.

Would this be a fair substitute for Renaissance Wax?
http://www.leevalley.com/wood/page.a...190,42950&ap=1

Both seem to be microcrystalline waxes?

Mark

2 ounce bottle of super glue (CA) $10. I've done about 15-18 sets of scales with it. The stuff gives a very hard water proof finish that can be built up with 5 to 8 thin coats. Polished up, it gives lots of depth to the scales and a shin that will last a long time. Very durable stuff and will protect your nice wood . I've even had success using it on a pair of old celluloid scales that were showing their age.... almost made then look new again.

Thanks everyone. This is great info, just what I needed. Yes, SRP and those who keep it turning rock.Christian