Ugh - LOL! Being a newbie and anxious - I carved the plate before doing anything to it other than a light sanding. So now the plate is done and I need to finish - what options do I now have? Can I do an oil finish followed by a poly finish. Hmm I need to do another one for the other sister - maybe I just need to get another plate and start over so they match. Chalk this one up as practice!

Sure I can help you with a finish. What I do is before I layout the pattern to be cut is I will spray a thin coat of Deft lacquer over the entire piece. I then layout and cut the pattern after which I will clean up the left over marks then spray another coat of Deft lacquer. The spraying seals up the surface which doesn't allow the gel stain to penetrate as much as the cuts. That leaves a nice contrast in cuts and surface. If I want the surface to be fairly light in color I apply several light coats of Deft just before staining with the gel stain. Don't use an oil stain because the liquid acts as a vehicle for the stain which will bleed intoo the surface from the cuts. After the gel stain has dried I use the Deft spray lacquer to finish the piece off. The spray works well to get into the cuts without puddling. These pieces aren't handled so a hard finish like a urethane is not needed.
I hope this helps.

Hi CarverRog - I was recommended to you by a fellow member. I am just getting into chip carving and my first two projects (after alot of practicing - lol) are anniversary plates for my wifes two sisters who are celebrating their 50th this year.

Was wondering what you use or would recommend for a finish on basswood plates? Have done alot of woodworking over the past 10 years, done alot of staining and varnishing on projects made of oak, walnut, cherry etc, but never completed a project in basswood.

From what I read - an oil finish seems to be the recommendation - but wanted to get your opinion.

BTW - your work is AWSOME and inspiring - hope someday I can create such beautiful work!

Thank!

Bob