Indoor finish for Merbau (Kwila)

[Dengue]

I have a board of Merbau (Kwila ) timber that I want to use indoors, fixed to a wall, to mount three polished brass instruments: circular thermometer, hydrometer, and barometer.

Normally this timber isused to make outdoor furniture. From a web site I found the following information:


Merbau (Kwila) is a naturally oily wood with high tannin content. This extremely durable hardwood is resistant to termites and decay, and is most commonly used for timber decking. Care must be taken when nailing to avoid splitting. It has a rich, dark brown colour with flecks of yellow often noticeable. It is susceptible to tannin bleed, appearing as a red-brown stain.

Can anyone please advise on a good finish for this timber for this application?

[RufflyRustic]

UBeaut's Shellac has always been a winner for me when finishing kwila or merbau :)

[Lignum]

Jill i love wattyl scandinavian oil on Merbau. LGS uses Organ oil and his finishes are first class. He shows his method here http://www.woodworkforums.com/f40/wip-red-gum-entertainment-unit-123698/#post1222414

[Wongo]

I have 2 Kwila chairs and desks at home. I didn't finish them any differently to other pieces I've made.

I applied 5 coats of a oil/poly mix and polished with ubeaut wax. 3 years on, they are still looking better and better every day.

oil/poly mix = equal amount of linseed oil, tung oil and oil based poly.

[Dengue]

Thanks for your suggestions. I ended up coating it with 3 coats of Cabots Danish Oil - turned out a bit too glossy, as I was trying to retain the natural finish.

You can see the results here (http://www.woodworkforums.com/f11/how-hang-board-flush-wall-128650/#post1258177)

[Wongo]

It does look a bit too glossy. I would sand it back with 000 steelwool and then polish it with ubeaut wax.