[dutchmanmk3]

There was a very thorough test conducted by Chris Minick in the July/August 2005 issue #178 of Fine Woodworking magazine that went into some detail, and really provided an indepth explanation of the qualities of wipe on finishes.

Possibly the best thing about the test was that it was approached from the mindset of the hobbiest yet conducted with a fair scientific consideration.

Other than the actual torture test it was a great side by side comparison of many over the counter products, and closely examined Clarity, Absorbtion, Resilience, Cost, and ease of use.

This is definitely worthy of a close look as many finishes we use as carvers rely more on simplicity than labor intensive finishing skills. Many of the finishes tested were oil, and varnish mixtures as well as polys. HTH Marc

[mdallensr]

I read that one at my library, and it was really well done. I was looking for ways to bring out figure, not the grain, and his explanation was right on the money. I tend to get stuck on a finish and use it as a one-size-fits-all.

[dutchmanmk3]

Originally Posted by mdallensr

I read that one at my library, and it was really well done. I was looking for ways to bring out figure, not the grain, and his explanation was right on the money. I tend to get stuck on a finish and use it as a one-size-fits-all.

I like the way he tested clarity on glass, and absorbtion with capillary tubes. It's just common sense, but alot of reviews are embellished more by opinion than actual observation. Many times people will go with BLO for greater clarity because tungue oil is actually darker. What they overlook is that BLO is a mere fraction of the hardness of cured tungue oil, and the softer oil will eventually take on more dirt and grime. A few years later the tongue oil appears to have gotten lighter ??? LOL.