Est. 1998 — 27 years of woodworking knowledge
Finishing Holly
Philip Duffy
I thought I knew how to handle/finish holly but the current batch of nice sized bowls escapes me.. Do I recall correctly that a water based finish lets the color alone, or is it a wax? If a wax which one??? So far I have a mess. P.
My go-to finish for Holly is.........
JamieDonaldson
….most often lacquer, which doesn't change the white color at all. Most all oil finishes add a tint of yellow due to the linseed oil component in the mixture.
Re: Finishing Holly
John C Lucas
My go to finish when i want to change the color as little as possible is Krylon Fixativ. It is designed to spray on chalk drawi gs to protect them. On some woods it will not change the color at all and doesnt even look like you.put a finish on it. Woods like cedar will still change. Do a test. I put 3 or 4 coats on and then buff lightly with Bealle system to make it more glossy.
Re: Finishing Holly
Dick Hines
Phil, I use Deft lacquer on holly. Most of the time Matt. 3-4 coats , sanding between costs.
Re: Finishing Holly
Don Stephan
Phil: Your query overlooked the intended usage of the bowls, and that can make a huge difference in finish choices.
Re: Finishing Holly
Philip Duffy
Hard to predict, Don. Once sold, someone will put them on the shelf, others run them in the dishwasher!@!!
Re: Finishing Holly
Don Stephan
Agreed, but I would not recommend a finish without knowing the desired level of protection.