Finishing... Ideas to finish your scroll saw or woodwork project
There are quite a few opinions on how to finish your scroll saw or woodwork projects. If anyone has suggestions, or information you would like to share, please feel free to email me.
After cutting your item with the scroll saw, it should be sanded before any finish is applied.
Sandpaper comes in many 'grits' or degrees of roughness. 60 to 100 grit sandpaper should be used first to smooth out the imperfections caused by the saw. Once your wood is smooth, you can change to 150 to 200 grit sandpaper. This type of sandpaper is used to smooth and polish all areas of the wood. Many woodworkers will not go beyond this sanding for most of their projects.
If you desire a high polish finish, 250 to 400 grit sandpaper may be used. It will give the wood a shiny finish, and ultra smooth feel. Use a clean cloth to wipe away the dust caused by sanding.
Once your item is sanded, apply a protective finish such as Canola oil. It is one of the simplest finishes to apply, and is safe and nontoxic, so it may be used for projects with small children 'helping.' Apply the Canola oil with a rag, let dry for a few minutes, then wipe excess oil away with a clean rag.
To give your wood color, use a stain. It can be applied with a rag, foam brush, or a regular paint brush. Stains come in water-based and oil-based varieties. Water-based stains are the easiest to clean up. Because stains do not seal the wood, many woodworkers cover the stain with varnish. If you prefer to paint your project, try using an acrylic paint. Acrylic paints are less toxic than many other types of paints, and are easier to clean up. Acrylic paint may be sprayed on, or applied with a brush. Applying a primer coat will help your finish last longer.
No matter what finish type you choose, follow the manufacturer instructions for use. Proper application, storage, and disposal of these products are important for the successful completion of your woodworking projects, and your overall safety.
We are available to answer your questions.