A couple of weeks ago, (might only have been last week, it’s been a bit busy lately, I’ve lost track!), I mentioned someone wanting to make their slide, made of veneered chipboard, slicker. For their children, apparently, but we don’t judge. I suggested wax over a sealer, and that Shellac Sanding Sealer would be easier to apply.

As this is a bit of a one-off project, they asked if the shellac sealer could also be used on other projects, in particular as a primer for repainting furniture. Yes, it can be, although as always we suggested a sample patch first, just in case there’s something odd in the paint that reacts with the sealer. It’s unlikely, but it’s always best to check.

Another question asked about a finish for a food and water bowl holder for a dog. For some dogs, bending over to eat can be a struggle, and bad for their digestion. Raising the bowls makes their life easier – and why not? How to finish it, though. It needs something that is hard-wearing, can resist water splashes, and safe enough for Fido to lick if (when!) food gets slopped over the side.

My suggestion was Hard Wax Oil. It’ll be good at resisting pretty much anything that’s thrown at it, and, whilst not proven to be food safe, it’s toy safe and I reckon that will be sufficient for this purpose. Dog food is not known for containing anything likely to draw anything out of the finish, and any food spills probably won’t stay there for long!