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Hi everyone, I recently went on an excursion into the world of papier-mache after having discovered that it has been used to make boxes and even furniture in the past. I have played about with the material and I have been pretty astounded by the results (much better than you might think for...

Hi everyone, some really great replies again. Thank you! In response to your question, ED65, all my research on the subject of Japanese lacquer designs has pointed me in the same direction that you have indicated. Patterns are hand painted on a matt background and then a clear coat is added...

Hi everyone, I was wondering if there is any equivalence between the number grading system of sandpaper and the F - FFFFF grading of ground Pumice and Rottenstone? For instance, is it possible to say that 600 grit paper equals an FFF or FFFF (... etc.) pumice or rotten stone? I am looking to...

Thanks Custard, great reply. Will try rubbing out the remaining samples again with more care and I will also start experimenting with other finish types.

Hi everyone, After having applied a good 10 coats of water-based satin polyurethane finish to a selection of different wood species (veneers) in order to practice finishing techniques, I finally summoned up the courage to rub one of them out. I am at a loss to assess the success of this first...

Thanks for the great replies everyone. In terms of the pumice technique, could I please ask exactly how it is done Custard? Thank you all!

Excellent replies, thank you all! I think that, having considered your advice, I will use black paint for my first tests and projects. I have invested a not inconsiderable sum in quality brushes lately so it would be a shame not to use them. Thank you for all the suggestions regarding spray-ons...

Hi everyone, I have been dealing with an unshakeable desire to learn about and try to replicate the use of japanese black 'urushi' lacquer on small decorative objects and the obsession shows no signs of abating in spite of the fact that precious little material seems to be available on the...

Hi ED65, In regards to your reply, I would like to ask if it is possible to fill grain by mixing the finish you intend to use with sawdust (and a little of the appropriate diluting fluid) to create a filling paste? I have to say that I have already made some up and applied it just to see but I...

Thanks for the replies. I'm not sure if the question was addressed to me Custard but in terms of my project, I'm not working on a specific project, I'm just trying my hand at finishing for the first time on different pieces of ply that I have veneered with a range of different wood types to see...

Hi everyone, I was wondering if different finishes require the use of a specific sealer? For example, if I am using shellac as my finish, must I only use a shellac sanding sealer or if I am applying a water-based PU finish, must I look for a PU sealer? Are there combinations that are preferable...

Thanks for the reply! I have been offered the cross-linked finish for free but I was hoping to apply with a brush. Is that totally out of the question?

Thank you for all the responses. I'm mainly working off information I read in an old edition of Wood Finishing Techniques by Michael Dresdner published by Fine Woodworking. He is pretty stern regarding warning about combustion risks. I just don't want to be irresponsible about what I bring into...

Hi everyone, I have decided to try and teach myself a few finishing techniques from the comfort of my home and, after a good amount of reading and watching online tutorials, I would like to try my hand at a brushed on gloss finish. I wanted to start with a water-based PU finish as I understand...

Thank you all again for the info. I am in the process of teaching myself finishing techniques and I feel like, if I (working in thin coats) build up to a thick enough layer of something like polyurethane varnish, I should be able to render my finished projects safe for regular contact with the skin!

Thank you very much guys, that's very reassuring! As for using epoxy, I have to confess that I have no experience with that. Is there a serious risk of the wood splitting if it is just small pieces? Do I need to be using any special blades when cutting too? I know these kinds of hardwoods can...

Hi everyone, I have been given a nice collection of wenge and paduk offcuts that I am planning to use to make jewellery pieces : bracelets, necklaces, earings, etc. A good woodworking friend of mine has raised concerns about possible harmful effects of having such woods in constant contact with...

Hi, I am a cabinetmaking student working on my last project of the year. Lately, I have been obsessed with Japanese lacquer art and I decided to spice up my work by attempting to recreate the black and gold motifs and art with black acrylic spray paint and gold acrylic and poster paint bought...

Thanks, I am doing my research on these areas now. Both options are good shouts, I will follow them up.

Hi everybody, I am a trainee Cabinet Maker. I have spent some time studying at Newark College in Nottinghamshire, though this year I chose to take a year out to try and establish my own workshop and get work. It has been hit and miss and I have decided I would like to go back into training...