Finishing bandsaw box

[Alexam]

I wondered if there is a better way?

I have been pleased with finishing with a few coats of sanding sealer, rubbed down between coats, then a hard wax to finish, again denied between coats,

I have only been woodworking since before Christmas and wish to know if there is another way, or is this about right.

I have tried oil and hard wax, but so far, prefer the other way. Do not want to use varnish and prefer a satin finish to the boxes. Have several to finish off, so would appreciate early replies please.

Thanks. Alex

Just bought a Bosch 280E detail sander and it works very well. Found that I can use a 400grit Abranet pad on the Velcro type buffer, which is very useful as the normal sanding pads only go up to 120grit.

 

[Glynne]

Alex,
It's really a matter of personal preference.
Some will say to forget the sanding sealer so as the wax or oil will penetrate but it is really down to what you like.
Why not try a few samples and do a permutation of finishes? You might well find that your preferences will change depending on the wood you use. For example on my turnings I tend to use sanding sealer and then soft wax or oil. But On a recent black walnut box, I left off the sealer and went straight to Danish oil so as it would permeate the wood and give a darker but matt finish. All down to taste.
Why not Google a lot of boxes and see what finish was used?

 

[Alexam]

Thanks Glynne. Sensible advice and may try using some scrap wood of various types and see what happens. I'm always trying to 'short circuit' answers and use someone elses brain, as mine is a little rusted and grey.

Getting busy with my boxes and have about a dozen in hand with several still to finish. Planning a trial sale in a couple of months at a local boutique that is interested. Love the most recent Spalted Beech. It's a lovely wood and will be getting some more at Yandles next month. Planning more exotic woods to see how they turn out. The BS400 is going well and am getting better and tighter turns now.

Cheers