Coffee Table finish

[Dod]

I hope this hasn't been already covered!
But I am making a coffee table out of Iron Bark and would like advice on the most suitable finish. Coffee tables get a bit of abuse in their lifetime -- with hot tea/coffee, and wine, cigarettes etc.
What would be the bets solution for the finish.
Thank you
Dod

[Shane Watson]

'The Best Solution' Depends who responds I suppose, everyone will have there own thoughts on the 'Best'. But in my opinion, if you want the best finish for such an application, then quite simply you couldn't better a 2-part poly-urethane lacquer. This will give you the best protection for all forms of abuse. Its basically one step below automotive 2-part lacquers, so that will give you an idea of there limits. But technically, it can't be used by the home handyman/backyarder/weekend warrior or whatever you call them, due to environmental and health concerns. So it would have to be done by a professional, yes such as myself...

Otherwise like I mentioned in the other post, ya basic N/C lacquer or Poly-u would be fine. Otherwise theres shellac, wax, oils etc. All have there merits and drawbacks. Choice is yours really, use what your comfortable with and that way when repairs are needed, you will be confident enough to complete them yourself!

HTH

Cheers!



------------------
Shane Watson..

Combine Love & Skill & You Can Expect A Masterpiece!

[Dod]

Thanks Shane
I do have Estapol Satin in a spray can and in a tin for brushing. But the label doesn't mention its suitability for hard usage.
What is N/C lacquer?
Thanks again
Dod

[Shane Watson]

Throw that estapol crap away, especially the pressure pack. Its no good for anything.

N/C Lacquer is Nitro Cellulose (sp?) lacquer. Probably the most common finish applied to modern timber furniture. You can almost bet the coffee tables in your local Harvey Norman store are polished with this stuff. Stockists of Wattyl, Mirotone, Croda etc stock the stuff. Can be applied by brush, rag, rubber, sprayed etc. And can be worked (pulled) similar to shellac after it has been applied.
Probably, it might be worth your while going to an automotive paint specialist store that stocks the above brands, they will no doubt be suppling to cabinetmakers and the like and should be able to steer you in the right direction. Avoid household paint specialists, such as hardware stores like Mitre 10, Bunnings, Hardware House etc. There knowledge usually only lies around household paints.

HTH

Cheers.....



------------------
Shane Watson..

Combine Love & Skill & You Can Expect A Masterpiece!