Methods to Finish Wooden Jewelry Boxes Made of Curly Maple and Walnut
Wooden jewelry boxes can be called works of art. Whether you are just an amateur woodworker or a seasoned artisan, creating such work of art is something that not everyone can achieve. Selecting the perfect wood and finish can spell the difference between a presentable box and an extraordinary heirloom.
Curly maple and walnut are some of the common exotic woods used when making jewelry boxes. Craftsmen choose curly maple because of its beautiful grain pattern and walnut because of its durability. To bring out the wood pattern of maple, it is critical to choose the right finish. The choice of wood finishing will depend on how you want the end product to look.
Do you want to preserve the light, creamy color of the wood or achieve a deeper grain pattern? Do you want a glossy shine? Different finishes will have varied looks on wood. Some create a darker shade of the wood. Others provide longer protection against moisture, wear and tear and other elements of nature.
With the many wood finishes available, what is the best finish for wooden jewelry boxes made of curly maple and walnut? Many woodworkers opt for finishes that highlight the curly maple pattern. They do this by using some dye stains to raise the grain achieving a 3-D effect. You can choose from a light amber to a darker brown hue to further bring out the curly pattern.
Oil is then rubbed into the wood to seal it. You should apply enough oil to saturate the wood. Tung oil, Danish oil or boiled linseed oil are the most common types of oil used. An oil finish will give the wood a smooth shiny glow. For an even glossier finish, you ca add a good quality wax.
Shellac is another suitable finish. It is a natural resin that brings out the warmth of the curly maple grain so you end up with a soft natural look and not a plastic-coated finish. It is easy to handle and can be applied with the use of a pad, brush, sprayer or wiping cloth. Shellac is a favorite because it dries fast and the color does not change over time. So if you want to maintain the light color of the wood, you should go for this finish.
Water-based polyurethane is a great option if you want a natural finish. It gives great durability and protection. It quickly dries and is easy to use.
When applying your wood finishing to your wooden jewelry box, remember to sand and prepare your wood well. You should sand the wood until smooth and free of any bumps. Wipe all the debris with a soft rag.
If you opt to use stains, apply them before sealing with oil or varnish. Remove any excess dye and let it dry completely. Rub oil or polyurethane to seal wood.
The right finish is one of the most important things to consider because it can give your creation that polished and professional look.
This article was written by Rachel Manalo of MarqART Gift Shop. Our jewelry boxes feature evocative wood art designs, created from unique wood grain patterns and colors. A fine addition to your dressing table or as a gift. Please visit http://www.marqartgiftshop.com to browse & buy exotic jewelry boxes that will give you a lifetime of pleasure!
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