Question regarding branding ...

[Joe Shanaphy]

Hi all ...

I just got a electric branding iron off ebay (new) and I have a somewhat unusual question. For the bowls, platters, etc. that I have already turned and finished, can I use the iron over the finishes? Some are Danish, some wax, some simply shellac. Hopefully someone has tried ... or knows NOT to try!

Thanks, Joe

[Jesse Busenitz]

I've found it works best on an unfinished piece.... You can go over a finish but the results are kinda iffy.

[Don McClure]

When I have tried branding over a finished, it usually turns out with a burned look in the surrounding finish. Brand before you finish.

[Harry Robinette]

I burn before finish. After finish is tricky at best and if you do try this wear a respirator. It stinks badly.

[Dwight Rutherford]

Joe,
I have been looking for a brand for my turnings, which one did you buy?

[Joe Shanaphy]

Dwight

Its a Wall Lenk with custom head. I fou7nd it on ebay for $39 delivered.

BTW ... the reason I'm asking is because I have a fairly large number of finished turnings, some waiting for final buffing and I would like to brand them in addition to new ones.

[Steve Mawson]

Give it a try on one, worst case is you have to refinish the bottom of a bowl. Don't know that brand of iron but branding the bottom of a bowl unless it has a large flat bottom is a little difficult because of the curve.

[Peter Fabricius]

If branding after finishing is not possible a second best might be to brand a bunch of wood business cards and include one with each bowl. I know it is not as good as branding the bowl but it will get your name out to your customers.
Peter F.

[Steve Busey]

BTW ... the reason I'm asking is because I have a fairly large number of finished turnings, some waiting for final buffing and I would like to brand them in addition to new ones.

Joe, if you have somebody near you that has a laser engraver, you can "brand" your finished turnings quite easily.
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