Finishing Red Gum

[Happy Chappy]

I am about to construct a bar with a 2100 x 1200 x 50 red gum top. I need some advice on the best techniques for finishing. I am hoping to be left with a lusterous sheen without too much maintenance.
Any advice would be appreciated.:confused:

[martrix]

Try Minwax Wipe-on Poly. It's pretty much fool proof.:rolleyes:

All you need to do is sand to what ever grade you want, preferably 320grit or higher, then just blow out all the dust with compressed air, and with a lint free cloth you just wipe on the poly, finishing with the grain.........and your done.
No spraying mist or vapour, no cleaning out sprayguns, no extra tin of thinners, no blocked filters, silent etc.
Do this about three or four times, depending how full you want the finish. I think it is probably suitable for a table top, but someone can correct me.
It is new to me, and I have done a few little tests.......see pic..........cant wait to use it on a nice piece......my 2cents worth;)

[scottyk]

Slate Sealer
It is hard as a rock and has a good gloss. Very easy to use.
It will last for a long time as it is designed to be walked upon.
Scotty

[Auld Bassoon]

G'day Happy Chappy,

If it's for furniture, I like to use de waxed shellac then traditional wax - both from uBeaut of course!

Comes up like this:

http://www.woodworkforums.ubeaut.com.au/attachment.php?attachmentid=15954&d=1132981741

[scottyk]

Steve
How does the shellac cope with a stubby or several being placed on it by us beer drinkers?
I havent really used it much but I have seen some terrible damage done to shellac by some very harmless impacts.
I spose what I am getting at is dont you think it might be a bit soft?
Scotty

[Auld Bassoon]

Hi Scotty,

Have a look at http://www.ubeaut.com.au/ubhome.htm Hard shellac is pretty good for this sort of stuff.

If Neil recommends it, then I'm sold :D

Cheers!

[scottyk]

The hard shellac looks interesting, maybe soon I will have to turn to it for a go. I usually think of the old traditional shellac, these new ones seem to be a different beast.
Thanks
Scotty

[normell]

Hi Happy
I recently built my own bar, with a red gum top, finished with "Glasscote"
http://www.woodworkforums.ubeaut.com.au/showthread.php?t=23417
A finish that looks like about 50+ coats of laquer, very hard (rock like)
From http://www.newagemultimedia.com/woodwork/index.html
Very easy to use

Normell