Surface sealing......

[ChrisF]

So many questions.....apologies 

I recently scorched the inside of an oak bowl. I really like the untreated Matt finish and the texture. I don't want to brush it....that would destroy the texture. I don't want to spray on a finish that will be obvious.  I do think it needs a finish...over time it'll get dusty and will need to be cleaned.


So......a soft wax that I can gently rub in?  Oil....tung?  Any spray fixatives? 

Any ideas very much appreciated.

[Les Symonds]

Now I'm not an expert on this, but my limited experience tells me that the process of scorching fractures the surface and that the fractured areas of charring become loose. I fear that sealing the surface will be a temporary solution because sooner or later, 'plates' of scorched and charred surface are going to part company with the substrate.
It's a bit like putting Selotape on a dusty surface.....the Selotape sticks to the dust, but the dust eventually parts company with the surface beneath it!
Les

[Bryan Milham]

Chris,

Difficult. My preference is for Hard Wax Oil over scorching, but it does leave a gloss finish. No idea if it can be brushed back to a satin or matt finish with a soft wire brush (those bronze ones you get in a pack of 3 in the £1 shops).

[Les Symonds]

Chris,

... Hard Wax Oil over scorching, but it does leave a gloss finish. ....

Richard Findley stocks Treatex hard wax oil and it is very good...I've bought a few different grades off him, and it's available matt, satin or gloss.
http://www.turnersworkshop.co.uk/woodturnersupplies.html

Les

[edbanger]

If Hard Wax Oil works but leaves a gloss finish, why not try good old fashion Danish Oil it's thinner than Hard Wax Oil so will sink in further and dry to a dull finish unless buffed.

Ed

[ChrisF]

Thanks for the ideas guys.  I'll have a play and let you know how I get on.