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finish on woodwork

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by milesaweigh, Nov 8, 2006.

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  1. milesaweigh

    milesaweigh New Member

    Joined:
    Oct 27, 2006
    Messages:
    3
    Location:
    inland boating, greenriver
    I am always amazed at the beautiful finishes that these yachts builders are able to achieve on their woodwork. I would like any input on how those super glossy finishes are achieved. I have done quite a bit of custom woodwork on my current boat but I have never been able to get those mirror finishes. This is my first post and I love this website.
  2. wdrzal

    wdrzal Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 6, 2006
    Messages:
    414
    Location:
    Allegheny Mountains of Western Pa
    I'm not sure on yachts, but spraying lacquer sanding with fine paper then buffing is the old woodworkers way.Lacquer can crowfoot (crack) so.......

    Now stronger finishes with the same luster can be achieved with urethane or polyurethane, the same process is needed for a perfect finish,as a piece of dust will always land on the wet finish and show, thus the need to sand and buff. more than 1 coat is needed for a deep luster no matter the coating..
  3. Ken Bracewell

    Ken Bracewell Senior Member

    Joined:
    Feb 9, 2006
    Messages:
    1,758
    Location:
    Somewhere Sunny
    We use good old-fashioned varnish. Maybe not so old-fashioned as finishes have come a long way.
    On my boat we use Epiphanes thinned with Captain's Varnish. It is slightly harder to brush, but looks good and has great UV resistance.
    The secret to a good finish is in the preparation though. Lots of sanding and cleaning prior to ever touching a brush.