The finish.
Applying a little varnish here and there can be pleasing to the eye:
Door handle.
That is the result after only one coat. A few more coats, and I will be able to call this one done — as in “finished”. Each coat must dry at least overnight.
— Al Navas
Al, is that a waterborne finish you used on the curly maple? Thanks for showing it to us.
Len,
For small boxes like this one I use an oil-based coating, which “pops” the grain beautifully.
Figured woods like the one on this box scream for something like the Waterlox sealer/finish varnish; I (just about) always apply it with a lint-free cloth. I normally apply two coats of the sealer/finish, followed by two coats of Waterlox satin top coat.
One nice quality of this varnish is that it can be repaired very easily, if need be. Woodcraft sells it – I buy it from them.
Wow Al, that wood looks like ivory, the finish is really beautiful. And the door catch is very authentic and sophisticated. I am impressed, what a gorgeous work I cant stop staring at it aaaaaaaaaaah
Thanks, Julio! I have to apply about four more coats – but the first one really popped the grain on the curly maple.