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Main Boards => The Bowyer's Bench => Topic started by: Knobbir on June 17, 2012, 12:32:00 PM

Title: Finishing Bamboo/IPE with danish oil?
Post by: Knobbir on June 17, 2012, 12:32:00 PM
I searched both this forum and google, and didn't get the info I need.
I'm doing the final tiller of a Kit bow that is Bamboo/IPE.  I'm not crazy about the color of the bamboo or the IPE. I want a satin finish that highlights the wood, but won't reflect in a hunting situation.  
Ive used danish oil on some other projects, and I really like the finished feel of the wood- it seems harder and more durable, but still looks like the wood. It also seems to bring out the grain. But once it is on, there is no turning back- you can't sand it out, and other finished just don't seem to work well after/over danish oil. The IPE seems dry, and I live in a hot dry and dusty climate.  What ever finish I use will have to be applied and set in 85-100 degree heat. It doesn't get much cooler until fall around here, even at night
It seems to me that other spray on finishes are more of a "coating". So I'm leaning away from Deft, which has been recommended here for IPE.  I also would like to darken the woods, and Danish oil comes in other colors. I don't know how well it will darken the bamboo, or what it will do to the grain on the bamboo.
But I'm not set on Danish oil, and would rather have a rally nice, durable finish that enhances a novice's hunting bow and will last many seasons.
Am I being stubborn and just need to go get some Deft or maybe something else?
Title: Re: Finishing Bamboo/IPE with danish oil?
Post by: Sam Harper on June 17, 2012, 11:51:00 PM
You could put a couple of layers of Deft to seal it (ipe is an oily wood), then put spare urethane or polyurethane over that.
Title: Re: Finishing Bamboo/IPE with danish oil?
Post by: Jake Fr on June 23, 2012, 03:25:00 PM
I personaly wouldnt use it on a bow arrows yes use acetone to wipe down the epi then ise true oil or deft cover bambo with snake skins or some thing
Title: Re: Finishing Bamboo/IPE with danish oil?
Post by: blue_beast_66 on July 30, 2012, 05:49:00 AM
I dont like putting acetone on wood as it draws out the natural oils and makes finishing a pain. I have never used Ipe but since it is an oily wood seems pulling more to the surface might not be the best plan but I don't know.
Title: Re: Finishing Bamboo/IPE with danish oil?
Post by: vanillabear? on July 30, 2012, 04:29:00 PM