Complete Wood Finishing
Revised Edition
by Ian Hosker
Softcover
210 x 275mm
167pp
Published by Guild of Master Craftsman Publications Ltd, East Sussex UK
R.R.P.$39.90
ISBN 1-86108-247-9
As reviewed in The Australian Woodworker Issue 112
Complete Woodfinishing - Revised Edition is thoroughly updated and expanded to help you make an informed and considered choice when planning which finish to apply to your work.
Author, Ian Hosker, includes chapters on choosing the appropriate finish (interior and exterior), surface preparation, varnishes, French polishing, wax and oil polishing, special paint effects, finishing turned work, staining and bleaching, and health and safety concerns. Illustrated with drawings, diagrams and colour photos, Complete Woodfinishing also contains recipes for finishes such as polish revivers, wax polish, oil polish, traditional milk paint and transparent glazes.
In the introductory chapter the author discusses how to decide which finish to use, when not to select a particular product, what methods of application are suitable, and the compatibility of finishes to the particular timber. There's also a handy quick reference table.
Surface preparation covers two chapters. Because power sanders are so popular, Ian begins by discussing the types of machines available, the benefits of each and how to use them. He then explains the ways in which smoothing tools such as planes and cabinet scrapers are sharpened and used to clean up the surface prior to staining and polishing. Abrasive papers are covered in detail with an explanation of the different grit sizes and types available, such as aluminium oxide and garnet. Ways to prepare new solid woods, work with veneers, strip surfaces, repair blemishes and apply fillers are also included.
The value of Complete Woodfinishing is clearly evident in sections such as Varnishes. The author begins with a description of modern clear wood coatings - Alkyd Resins, Polyurethane, Water-Based Varnishes and Microporous or moisture vapour permeable finishes. These are grouped together under the general term of varnish. Further details are provided on preparing the surface, as well as techniques for applying the finish. Also recommended is the ideal type of environment in which to work and the potential faults in finishes such as nibs (dust particles in the final finish), tackiness (still sticky), bloom (a milky appearance) and sagging (loss of adhesion between coats causing runs and drips) - and how to avoid them.
One of the difficulties in books on French polishing is that the text attempts to convey the folding of the 'rubber' and the motion in which it is used. Ian overcomes this by offering step-by-step photos on the folding and use of the rubber, and supports these with clear, instructions.
This book is not only devoted to the finishing of interior projects. In Protecting and Preserving Timber, it looks at the type of pests to watch out for and how to guard against them. It also discusses the treatment of structural timbers.
Complete Woodfinishing - Revised Edition is, as the title suggests, a comprehensive guide to finishing wood that offers both beginners and more experienced woodworkers an invaluable reference and instructional text for their workshop library.
Photos: Colour
Contents
Introduction
The Right Finish For The Job
Power Sanding
Health and Safety
Surface Preparation
Staining and Bleaching
Wax and Oil Polishing
French Polishing
Varnishes
Spray Lacquers
Colour Correction
Finishing Turned Work
Protecting and Preserving Timber
A Guide to Refinishing
Special Pant Finishes
Limed Oak
Recipes for Finishes
About The Author
Index