Minwax Sanding Sealer Replacement

[Mike Willeson]

I just discovered that the old formula Minwax sanding sealer in the yellow can is no longer produced. I am looking for a replacement with similar qualities, mainly in look.

I have some hand carved figures for a nativity set that I have been carving, one each year for the past 6 or 7 years, and am just finishing the last pieces this year. Obviously I want them all to look the same.

The carved pieces are basswood. I have used 1 coat of sanding sealer, rubbed down with paper from a brown grocery bag, followed by a single coat of wood finishing paste wax.

Not looking for a discussion of if that's the best finish or why it was used. Looking for recommendations on what to replace the sanding sealer with so it will look the same.

When I could not find the Minwax I bought some varethane (sp?) water based sanding sealer and it has a white-ish look to it. The original sanding sealer had a glossy look.

Has anyone been using the old formulat sanding sealer and have you found a replacement that "looks" the same?

Thanks,
Mike

[Howard Acheson]

Have you tried the Minwax replacement product? I doubt that you will find a direct replacement. Very, very few finishers use an oil based sanding sealer any more.