07-18-2011, 11:18 PM
Got me thinking, haven't done one for a while.
I have a set of somewhat disposable plastic spackle knives ranging from 1 to 4 inches which I use for filling grain as well as spackling. Unlike metal ones, you really have to try to damage the fragile veneer. In addition, it is a little easier to maintain an even distribution and motion. I also work at a random angle to the grain, not with or against it. I still like shellac as a substrate and sealer, maybe just I like the fumes, but it does kind of level the playing field and is reversible if you screw it up.
Most top coats will eventually completely fill the pores, again gravity helps, and actually the slower drying finishes tend to level out the surfaces better (remember Bar-Top varnish?)
I have a set of somewhat disposable plastic spackle knives ranging from 1 to 4 inches which I use for filling grain as well as spackling. Unlike metal ones, you really have to try to damage the fragile veneer. In addition, it is a little easier to maintain an even distribution and motion. I also work at a random angle to the grain, not with or against it. I still like shellac as a substrate and sealer, maybe just I like the fumes, but it does kind of level the playing field and is reversible if you screw it up.
Most top coats will eventually completely fill the pores, again gravity helps, and actually the slower drying finishes tend to level out the surfaces better (remember Bar-Top varnish?)
