[Alice in Wonderland]

Hi to all
I started a Red Cedar big bowl and my experience with finishing this are rather disappointing, I would like to keep the red-red, but somehow it turns sort of brownish, does anybody have an idea? this is North-Eastern Red Cedar,
how about you Colin?? Have you finished it to satisfaction? I love the color and I really try to keep it.Thanks all for your help.
Alice

[Plain_Ol_Ed]

I turned a lamp out of it years ago (40 plus) and finished it with several coats of Johnson Paste Wax. Rubbed it in with my hands letting the heat help it penetrate. Still the same reddish and white color now as it was then. Maintenance is just dusting it off on occassion. Same wax has been on there forever with none added.

[Irish]

Alice, do you have any scraps of the red cedar to do test samples on? I have read your post a couple of times and think that I am reading it right ... Since it's a bowl that someone might use for food what you are looking for is a finish that will keep the red cedar red and that will be food safe. I believe I would try a test sample with mineral oil ... Mineral oil is clear, should darken the red slightly but won't leave a yellow or orange coloring and is food safe.

Susan

[Alice in Wonderland]

thanks all for your reply and help, I have thought of natural methods and both of you sound good I shall try, I will attach a picture, it shows the color and size but I have a long way to go
thanks again
Alice

[Colin_Partridge]

Alice that is beautiful wood and you are very wise to wear that mask that cedar dust can be deadly. I have carved that cedar and you are right it is beautifully pink when you carve it but then turns brown. I havent had any luck with it either so I am learning here as well. Sorry I couldnt help make sure you let us see the finished product. I can see why you call yourself Alice in Wonderland really nice view you have looks like a magical place.
Colin