Finish Bummer
Mark Mandell - Gone Round In Jersey
>Several years ago I did a spindle-arm "Lady" Morris chir and foot stool in cherry. Finish was cherry Watco, sealed with dewaxed garnet shellac, and then top-coated with Target Ultima WB lacquer.
SWMBO calls me into the living room a few weeks ago to show me the cracks in the finish on the top surface of the arms. Literally looked like the piece was a hundred years old. Wierd, though, because the entire chair was finished at the same time, but only the top of the arms cracked.
Contacted Target and was told that SealCoat and flake-mixed shellacs "like" to crack under waterbornes if they have much age on the mix. Gent recommended I sand down to remove the surface cracks and then recoat with more lacquer because the burn-in would fuse and bond.
Well, didn't work, and I had to remove the entire finish on the top surfaces. This was hand work until I cut away all of the lacquer and shellac, which tended to ball and clog the paper; 3 hours, two full sheets of MIRCA paper, and carpal tunnel in full bloom, and I could switch to the sander.
Restained and then mixed some fresh shellac which has gone on well. Will hand-apply several coats of Ultima tonight since it's too cold and damp outside to spray.
Those here using waterbornes over shellac barrier/sealer coats should take note to keep their shellac fresh. I've taken to mixing smaller batches.
Anyone have amy tips of brushing waterborne lacquer?
HNY
mm