finish woes

[latech15]

I an fairly new to turning and have just turnerd maybe 30 pens or so, but I can't seem to get a finish to look good and stay looking good.

The first finish I tried was just wax. I was so amazed that I had actually made something on the lathe that I didn't even realize how bad the finish stunk.

The second finish that I tried was CA glue. I read all about it and thought I knew what I was doing. I would use the thin ca and oil method. Apply the thin ca and rub it down a little, then apply oil and rub it until it is dry. I repeated this step maybe 5 times. That finish was so much better than the first one that I thought I had actualy accomplished something. The only problem is that is didn't shine and have a clear finish for long after I started using it. The finish would dull after a few minutes. the finish is great if you want the "feel" of the wood, but I want the shine like I see on your guys pens.

I then went to a woodworking show in Dallas and learned a new technique from the guys at craft supplies usa. I start off with a sanding sealer, then a EEE wax, then four or five coats of a friction polish, then two coats of renissance wax. This finish looks great on the lathe and even after I write with it a few days, but after a little use, it dulls as well. All of the pens that I have used this finish on now look like two different types of wood. On the lower end, where you hold the pen, it is dull. On the top it is shiny and pretty.


A lot of the pics that I see on here that you say the you use CA glue on is much better than mine. I guess what I want to know is do your pens also dull after use and if not what am I doing wrong?

 

[bradh]

The oil you were using would make the finish look glossy until the oil drys , then you would start to see the state of the CA under it.
I think that all you need to do is wipe down the BLO and add a buffing stage to polish up the CA.
Brad

 

[Tanner]

Try Fangars CA method. Here is the link http://www.penturners.org/forum/topic.asp?ARCHIVE=true&TOPIC_ID=11970&SearchTerms=my

Follow it exactly. I was sanding through the CA in some areas and got some dull spots. Now I just turn the pen almost to the bushing then start the above method. I'm kind of heavey handed so I have to keep telling myself light sanding. Also Russ said to keep fingers off. I was sliding my fingers accross the pen to feel how soft it was ans leaving some oils on the pen. Now I just wear latex gloves. That CA shines right up and stays.

 

[les-smith]

Originally posted by Tanner
<br />Try Fangars CA method. Here is the link http://www.penturners.org/forum/topic.asp?ARCHIVE=true&TOPIC_ID=11970&SearchTerms=my

I agree with Tanner, Fangar's method worked for me. Though I have modified it to fit my taste and needs it really got me started on the right foot. I now deviate from Fangar's method depending on what I think the pen needs. I think if you give Fangar's method a try you'll be happy.

 

[guts]

Jeff,i use fangars method also but i don't use the sanding sealer and i think i seen a post by james where he said he quit using it too,i have had no problems with dulling after it's finished.