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The Forestry Forum

Other topics for members => General Woodworking => Topic started by: Bill Gaiche on May 24, 2020, 10:26:36 PM

Title: Walnut Mantel
Post by: Bill Gaiche on May 24, 2020, 10:26:36 PM
I am getting ready to cut a 5" x 12" x 68" mantel for a friend. The tree has been standing dead for about 5 years. How would you go about getting it ready for a finish. I know it will have a lot of moisture in it. Also what would U prefer to use as a finish when the time comes, thanks in advance...bg
Title: Re: Walnut Mantel
Post by: low_48 on May 24, 2020, 11:47:36 PM
If it's wet, I would rule out any film finish. I'm no fan of oil though either. It just takes too much maintenance for oil. I guess waiting till it's dry is out of the question?
Title: Re: Walnut Mantel
Post by: Bill Gaiche on May 25, 2020, 12:57:35 AM
I figured that just go ahead and put it up and when the time is right, finish it. bg
Title: Re: Walnut Mantel
Post by: WDH on May 25, 2020, 08:20:41 AM
That is what I would do.  No instant pudding when it comes to drying very thick wood. 
Title: Re: Walnut Mantel
Post by: firefighter ontheside on May 26, 2020, 06:21:58 PM
I would say mill it and let it dry a few weeks so that it can be planed, then put it up.  Let it dry until moisture is around 10% and then finish it.  For me, walnut looks best with BLO or oil based poly.
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