Help- What finish will work?

[brad-1983]

Hi all,

I am an avid woodworker that works on the big scale. Already have done a 400kg 12 seat table out of river red gum.

Now I am doing a coffee table out of ex rail bridge sleepers. I have rough sanded 90% of tars and weather off. I am now left with beautiful reds and tar lines.

I do not want to darken this finish at all. I have tried a number of clear varnishes, oils and a u beaut wax on its own but they all send the timber really dark and it just doesn't bring out the life of the wood.

Can anyone provide some details on a finishe the will protect enough for indoors and won't darken the timber at all.

I have thought of a light chlorine was but then I will loose the tar lines.

Thanks,
Brad

[RufflyRustic]

Hi Brad

Have a look at this very recent thread (http://www.woodworkforums.com/f163/paul-call-restoration-final-112567/#post1106231). I think it has exactly the info you are looking for.:)

cheers
Wendy

[WOODY70]

Brad just wipe down the piece with a wet rag.

When wet this will be the timbers natural colour.

You will find this more than likely darkens the timber and if so there is nothing you can do about it.