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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: Jwilliam on April 20, 2009, 05:13:00 PM

Title: What finish??
Post by: Jwilliam on April 20, 2009, 05:13:00 PM

I just received my kit bow from Mark Horne. This will be my first attempt at building a bow of any kind. I was just wondering what finish I should spray on it when I'm done.


Bill

Title: Re: What finish??
Post by: bjansen on April 20, 2009, 08:02:00 PM

I would try a tru oil finish...a couple guys tell you how they do it just a fews posts down.  In my opinion it is the best combination of great results and ease of application (and relatively cheap)......and you dont have to get out the spray equipment.  


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Title: Re: What finish??
Post by: The Gopher on April 20, 2009, 08:21:00 PM

You can also check out a product called Arm-R-Seal made by General Finishes. it is a thin poly that can be brushed or wiped on and dries quickly. i love it and it is the ony poly i use. but i also liek tru-oil like jansen mentioned.

tru-oil will be easier to find you can get a small bottle at walmart in the sporting goods area.

I have only found Arm-R-Seal at woodworkings stores such as Rockler or Woodcraft.

good luck, Dan.

Title: Re: What finish??
Post by: Jwilliam on April 21, 2009, 01:28:00 AM

What about Minwax fast drying poly in a spray can? Will I have any problems with it on the glass?

Title: Re: What finish??
Post by: kennym on April 21, 2009, 11:23:00 PM

Hi J,
I have heard the fast dry is not good,I use minwax helmsman spar urethane satin on the few I build. Works good,but on oily wood like coco and such,a couple coats of CA will save a lot of headache with just about any rattlecan finish.

Title: Re: What finish??
Post by: Bob Sarrels on April 27, 2009, 11:10:00 PM

I shoot Sherwin-Williams catalized varnish.  Very similar to Fullerplast but I can get it locally.  Unfortunately it comes only in gallons ($40) and the catalist in quarts ($20).  That will shoot a lot of bows.  Very fast flash time and a good hard flexible finish.  I use what they call the Dull Rub Waterwhite .  It is the dullest finish I can get.  If I want a glossier finish I simply don't stir up the flatteners.  Just dip right off the surface of the can.  It mixes 3% catalist.