clear finish

[George Clark]

Most oils and varnish that I have used tend to add a yellow hue to the project. Normally I like this, but I have some projects that I would like to finish without this yellowing effect. What is your favorite really clear finish. Thanks in advance for your input.

George

[George Guadiane]

Van Industries makes a water based acrylic that is supposed to be pure water clear.
Here is a link to their page, you need to tell them that you are a woodturner, and at this time of year, they may not ship it (if it freezes, its no good). I have used their water based poly with BEAUTIFUL results and bought the clear acrylic because I too wanted to avoid the tint. Because I have such good results with the poly, I took their recommendation and bought it... I have not yet used it.

With the poly, I am able to sand with oil and apply immediately. The tech guy seemed to think the same would be true of the acrylic. For clear sanding I use mineral oil... Makes the grain and figure really stand out.

[Scott Lux]

If it's something you want really shiny, CA (superglue) makes a very clear finish. It cures quickly, and can be buffed well. It can be cost prohibitive, but there are sources for deals. A 2 oz bottle will finish dozens of pens, so I assume you could get one larger piece out of it. Be sure to blow the fumes away from you.

[Alan Tolchinsky]

Hi George, I just asked this question last week. Great minds think alike. Some clear finishes are water based poly, spray lacquer, and super blond shellac. Hope this helps. Alan

[Bill Bolen]

I generally use minwax water base poly, comes in the blue can.

[Bernie Weishapl]

George I got some Benwood called Stays Clear Acrylic Polyurethane from our local lumber yard. I used it on some maple that my sister wanted the light clear wood to show. It worked great.

[Michael James]

I love everything about shellac, 'cept sometimes you really dont want the amber effect. I use a lacquer sanding sealer, then lacquer. Have not tried the waterbased stuff, but will probably try some based on feedback here. Good luck!
mj

[dan carter]

A Diamond product, a floor finish, Varathane is a latex product, dries clear, it does raise the grain of many woods.