How best to finish an Ash & Mahogany box

Help,

I have started a small box made from Ash & Mahogany as I liked the contrasting colours. The effect I am looking for is to highlight the shimmering "tiger stripe" grain and the color of the white ash whilst offsetting against the beautiful depth and richness of the mahogany. I am guessing I will have to prefinish the separte woods then join, but I am not sure how best to join them without damaging the prefinish nor how to secure both finishing results without a poor compromise?

Any suggestions greatfully appreciated.

Thanks
Pete

Hi Pete,

Hmm, interesting timbers. I'll give you a few suggestions, but only if you promise to post pictures :D

I'd try a few finishes on some test pieces as this will give you a better idea of the right finish for the timber.

My first choice would be UBeaut's Hard Shellac. Others may suggest an oil or other finish.

Why do you think you'll have to pre-finish before fitting the box together? Is it a very small box?

I think Stuart (or did I read this in a magazine?) recently suggested taping over the join areas and then pre-finishing.

Anyway, a couple of ideas for you.

Other forumites may be able to provide more suggestions.

cheers
Wendy

Thanks Wendy,

Thought I might need to prefinish in an effort to get the right depth of colours first is all.

Its a small box that I'm making with my daughter whose 10. Apart from the buzzer she's used all the other tools (with very careful overview) taking it from rough timber to dressed and now cut to size for the various parts.

We are now at the sticking it together stage so I want to make sure on how best to approach the finishing before we get to the "no turning back now"!!