Has it really been a week already? It’s been a busy one for us getting stuff made and sent out; all the normal sort of stuff really. There’s nothing much to tell you about so I’ll get straight on with the questions!

We were asked about a finish for a segmented vase. Our emailer wanted to protect the natural colours of the padauk and purpleheart, both of which are affected by UV light. We suggested our Acrylic Gloss or Acrylic Satin Lacquer as both of these have UV filters in them and will slow down the colour change. Importantly, as this is a segmented piece, we also advised against using the brushing Cellulose Sanding Sealer as a base, as this could make the natural colours of the timber run. Instead the Acrylic Sanding Sealer aerosol should be used as it is both suitable for the top coat and will keep the colours where nature put them!

It’s very flattering; someone asked recently if they could reproduce our Compatibility Chart in their club newsletter along with some of my other ramblings. We’d be delighted! the more information out there the better, as far as we’re concerned. So if you, or someone you know, edits an appropriate journal, just let them know. The only thing we’d like in return is a credit as the source of the information and possibly a link to sign up for the Newsletter.

Finally for this week, a question came in about using Melamine Lacquer on house signs. We know of melamine being used externally, but it’s far from ideal and it will deteriorate fairly quickly. A better choice would be the Acrylic Gloss Lacquer. This is designed for outdoor use as well as indoor, and will stand up to a lot of whatever gets thrown at it weather-wise.

And that’s the end of the Newsletter already! I’ll remind you all next week, but on 28 January I’ll be at Axminster in High Wycombe for their in-house woodturning club, so if you’re in the area why not call in and say hello? And maybe even ask some questions that could turn up here in the future.

Have a great week, all the best

Terry