Suggested finish for Eastern Red (Aromatic) Cedar ?

[Burkhardt]

So far I made a few boxes with my finger joint software from the usual suspects, like maple, walnut, cherry (also some mulberry and bamboo). I found an easy way of applying a mirror polished lacquer that works quite well for such hardwood.

Recently I ordered a few boards of figured eastern red cedar that I want to use for another series of boxes and to experiment more with wooden hinges. But I think a polished lacquer may not be appropriate for the rustic character of that softwood. Not even sure if it would work that well.

Now, maybe somebody has a suggestion for a suitable finish that is still easy enough to apply? I was wondering about a straight application of Danish or Teak oil. Or any better idea?

Thanks, GB

[bleeth]

Sikkens Cetol.
Do a search here and you will find it suggested regularly for cedar and go to their site for more info. Most are "flat" finish, but if you want to bring it up they also have a 2 step process that shines like anything.
Ridiculously easy to apply.

[gerryv]

That's great info Dave; do you mean that Sikkens has the 2-step info on their site or here on the forum? Here in Canada, finding Sikkens info has become quite confusing since they got into the acquisition and name-change game.
Thanks much,
Gerry

[kurt_rose]

I like to do a coat of BLO to pop the grain then a few coats of satin poly.

[scottp55]

Beautiful Piece Kurt :)

[Burkhardt]

I like to do a coat of BLO to pop the grain then a few coats of satin poly.
Yes, that looks spectacular. I did not know that you can carve that level of detail and finish in red cedar.

Thanks for the tips, never worked with Sikkens Cetol but looked it up today. They have a dazzling variety of very different finishes. Which one would that be? For this application it would need to be good for mild indoor use and some handling/bumping only.

[bleeth]

All their finishes, and even those that are specified "interior" last a long time outdoors, so you can pretty much choose what you want for your small box. One local supplier here carries "sample size" cans in different colors and if you can get them you would have plenty for your project.
The product that has the high shine topcoat is heavily used in the marine trades and can likely be picked up at your local marine supply store.