finishing question

[uvawyo]

I have been antiqueing with a butchers block wax or with a butchers block wax plus brown shoe polish or with linseed oil-burnt umber followed by the butchers block wax
My question is after any of these combinations do i need to use deft?

[Mitchell]

I haven't used Deft (or similar product) on top of wax....not sure that it will 'stick'. You can always try it - on a test piece first (personal opinion).

One of my finishing routines is to apply the satin clear coat (Deft) on top of my antiquing solution of BLO mixture, and then finishing up with wax. I use Briwax golden oak wax. Actually, I have recently been using BLO/mineral spirits (50:50) before painting with acrylics, then Deft, and finally wax.

Why? The BLO/mineral spirits give the acrylic paints a richer look. The Deft seals the carving. The wax adds to the antiquing and makes the figure softer looking (and feeling too!). The appearance is just something that I personally like.

I have a concern that the wax may deteriorate the Deft, but so far haven't noticed anything. The concern is not based on anything that I've noticed - just a 'hunch'.

To directly answer your question - no....there's no NEED to put it on. Wax can be effective by itself.

[Bob K.]

I agree with Mitchell...I finish my carvings the same way.

[Dave Richardson]

I also agree, Deft first, wax last.
Dave

[uvawyo]

Ok, Thanks for being so prompt with answers. I appreciate it.

[woodshed]

I've changed how I finish recently. Using Deft first, painting (but now I have to use 2 coats of wash to get the look I want), them Watco Dark wax, And deft again after that dries. Gives just a little more gloss to the carving than just the wax, but not "wet" shiny, more of a glow.

[kdispoto]

What exact Deft product are you all refering to?

[Dave Richardson]

I use two kinds, I use the Deft clear wood finish semi-gloss spray lacquer and I use the Deft clear wood finish satin brushing lacquer. The spray is kinda pricey if you use alot, I have found it at Lowe's for just under six bucks but other hardware stores for as much as nine bucks. The quart can of the brushing lacquer is about nine bucks and will go a long ways. If I have 1 or 2 ornaments to finish the spray is quick and easy and no brush clean up, other than that I use the brush on. Both are self leveling and dries to the touch in a matter of minutes, I really think you could put the brushing lacquer on with your fingers and get a decent finish...let me know if you try it LOL
Dave