Tony -- Flat and Semi-Gloss in oil based varnishes is done by addition of Silica into the varnish. The silica changes the reflections and the surfaces. Let the varnish settle and not mix it before use, the top part is more glossy.
Silica is not practical with the different CA finish processes, but light abrading with 4-O steel wool takes the gloss off. Old trick on flat work, and Les Elm uses it with his dipped finish processes when he want less gloss.
I have used scotch brite and 4-O steel wool to get less shine, or I have stopped the abrasive polishing processes early when I have just the right amount of reflectance.
Thank you. I actually want high-gloss. The BLO and CA furnish less that high-gloss. I was wondering if the walnut oil-CA combo would produce high-gloss which is what I want. Did you combine the walnut oil and CA before applying or alternate?
Tony -- Went back to the shop and double tested. I have a run of modified Cigar pens (without the center band) and a couple are using ebony and blackwood. I used 50 cps CA and Doctors Workshop walnut oil. -
Sand to P800 or P1000, I sand both radially and longitudinally (or on the diagonal to be more precise) to assure there are no scratches visible.
CA seal with 50 cps sand to a smooth undercoat to P800 (usually start at 320 or 400). Use folder paper towel for application.
Inspect with care an wipe blank clean
fold a new paper towel and add a couple drops of walnut oil and apply - with lathe running and under hand hold add a few drops of CA moving rapidly - repeat 4 times.
Inspect
Pretty darn good shine -- and I can see the grain of the wood with great clarity.
Go to polishing routine
Nice outcome
Do not know how to measure brightness of shine -- but the barrels were "gleaming"
Fr
CA sealer coat and resand