Popular Woodworking 2008-11 № 172, страница 59

Flexner on Finishing

7 For the second coal, we'll leave a little more finish on the surface, though you could apply all coats in the manner of the first. The downside of the first method is that the build will be slow, but each coat will be almost perfect. Instead of using a brush for the second coat, fold one of the rags to create a flat side. I lere I'm using a Scott Rag.

8 Just as with the first coat, pour some of the wiping varnish onto the surface and wipe it around with the folded cloth.

9 With the surface wet, begin wiping in the direction of the wood grain to get an even thickness that is slightly more than damp but not as wet as when brushing. Ifyou have poured too much finish onto the surface, remove some with a dry cloth and continue spreading with the folded cloth. Move your head to catch a reflected light on the surface to see what's happening so you can correct problems. This is critical for achieving good results. I et this coat dry for four to six hours or overnight (the finish dries faster in warmer conditions). Clearly, each coat has lo be kept very thin on vertical surfaces to avoid runs and sags.

When the finish is dry, sand the surface lightly with tt4U0-grit sandpaper to remove dust nibs and other problems. ( There are always dust nibs when you apply ihe finish damp or wet. I Sand just enough so the surface feels smooth.

If anything should go wrong during application for example, I I using a dirty cloth that leaves lots of dust in the finish - you can remove the uncured finish for quite some time by wiping over with a cloth wel with mineral spirits. You won't remove or damage the coal underneath.

-f 'I You can apply as many coats as you want, until you gel the look I you want. You can experiment with how much finish you leave on the surface with each coat. Once you have built a noticeable thickness, the finish will be glossy. If you would rather have a satin sheen, apply a last coal or two using gel varnish (also sold as neutral gel stain) in the same manner as llie first coat of wiping varnish. Wipe off all the excess. No matter how clean you get the air in your shop, there will always be some dust nibs. An easy way to remove them without changing the sheen is to rub lightly using a folded brown paper bag. Wail to do this until the finish has cured enough so you no longer smell the paint thinner with your nose pressed against the surface. You'll be amazed at how effective this is. PW

92 ■ Popul ar Woodworking November 2008