Madrone Finish

[RichB]

I made two pens out of this very outstanding wood. The block of wood I have is very dry with a lot of character. One of the pens out of it I sent in my Pith exchange. The question I have is this. After sanding and MM up to 12000 dry, it is light and all the grain stands out. When I touch it with any type of liquid it turns dark and covers up most of the grain. How do I finish it and keep it light. I thought about a polish finish on my next one but I thought maybe someone else has the answer. Thanks RichB

 

[Manny]

Other than leaving it natural (which will darken as well) it doesn't sound like you have much choice.
When I finish light woods like maple and Holly I just use straight CA to minimize darkening. I was just thinking about trying to bleach some wood to make it lighter. Shrug... not tried it yet

GL

Manny

 

[Wheaties]

Blond shellac shouldn't get any color from it. Can't remember what cut though. But that would be minimal protection at best.