Filling hairline cracks in tabletop

[John Goodin]

I am finishing a tabletop made of reclaimed boxcar flooring using a thinned shellac toner. Problem is the spray does not get in some of the hairline cracks and leaves a visible "white line" of unfinished maple. Any ideas on how to color these cracks? I'd like to stay away from epoxy if possible. Btw, I have only finished the bottom and not concerned about the white line cracks there. I have raw wood on the top and legs right now so a pre coloring is possible. Thanks in advance.

[John TenEyck]

I would try dye in water. Just brush or sponge it over the cracks, then wipe up the excess. Brief exposure to water won't hurt the shellac. Make the dye solution at least as dark as your final hue.

John

[Chad Walker]

I am going to get some boxcar floor today. John, how did yours turn out? Do you have any pics of the finished project? Any tips on working with the boxcar floor? Thanks.