Finish suggestions

[Dave Westover]

Im wrapping up a tool chest and need an appropriate finish. The chest is for mechanics tools, not my woodworking tools, so this was never meant to be heirloom quality. The chest(s) are 2 AC plywood cases with 5 pine drawer boxes in each. I plan, for now, to band the plywood with 1/2" poplar but I could be talked out of that should a particular finish warrant some other choice.

I had orignially planned to paint the cases and spray shellac the drawers, but Id like to hear others' opinions.

Thanks

[Steve Schoene]

I like your original plan--shellac on drawers and paint on case. Prime with a couple of coats of BIN to help keep the plywood texture from getting wild and then paint.