Thread: Questions about using CA (cyanoacrylate) for sealing wood

I understand CA works well to seal wood scales and give a glossy finish, but is there a particular brand or grade that is more suitable?

I am looking to get some, but will basically any traditional Super Glue work fine? It seems like it could get a bit expensive and I just envision gluing my scales to the bench (or myself) with one slip-up!

I have noted many folks use CA frequently (Joe, feel free to chime in here) so I'm curious the pros and cons.



v/r

Allen

Mine is from bison. Basically I think it doesn't matter, except some set faster than others.

Oops... one other quick question about this.

Which consistancy seems to work better/easier for finishing scales? I routinely see thin (almost water-like) versions all the way up to thick epoxy-like stuff. Seems like the thin stuff would penetrate the wood better but the thick would be easier to work with


Thanks again!


v/r

Allen

I use "hot stuff" which is a well-known CA. It is the thinnest. Penetrates the wood well. Most guys at least start with the thinnest on scales. I know of one who uses the medium stuff after some thin coats. The thinner it is the quicker it sets- just remember that!

This is a film finish rather than a wood penetrator. I am currently using "hot stuff" as this is what I found but can't really say what is best. Nor have I yet been successful in using this. I've got one set of scale almost nice and shiny but the number of false starts were disturbing. So while I got lucky occassionally and often enough to get a decent finish there are some spots with clouding and inconsitent depth of coverage still

-Bob

I use what is best described as a "medium" CA. Not too thick or thin...juuuust right.

Most people (including myself) use "hot stuff"; it's the CA with the thinnest consistency. If you want to use some thicker stuff, go ahead, but I'd advise against using anything goopy. One of the best restorers I know of used a mixture of "Hot Stuff" and the slightly more viscous "Super T" in about a 1:1 ratio. Super glue, Krazy glue and those other brands may have some extra stuff added to it that may cause a cloudy finish, so, try to find the stuff that is specifically labeled as cyanoacrylate.

When I do a CA finish I apply 3 or 4 coats at a time, letting air-cure for many hours and lightly sanding with 400grit between applications. Once I have at least a dozen coats, then I apply only 2 coats, then let cure, sand, and finish with a single coat. I find this results in the smoothest natural finish and reduces the amount of final sanding that needs to be done.