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votes
Wood desktop finishing question
I built a basic panel out of some boards left over from another project. I'd like to use this as a desktop surface just laid on top of some filing cabinets. I'm wondering what the best way to finish this would be? I don't think I want to paint and I'm ok with some light staining but I don't have any experience with sealing or whatever I would want to do to help preserve the surface. It would have typical office items on it (keyboard, mouse, monitor, paper, pens, etc.).
I'd suggest good old polyurethane thinned 50:50 with mineral spirits and wiped on with a rag. It is nearly impossible to mess up, dries quickly, is resistant to regular use, and doesn't tinge the wood too much (but can bit a bit yellow on birch and white woods). With it thinned it shouldn't look too plastic-y like poly can if you lay it on in thick coats. 2-3 coats should do it with a light brush with 180-220ish sand paper between coats. Make sure to do both sides at the same time! If you do one side and let it dry without doing the opposite side too you will make your panel warp!
I'd concur with polyurethane if you're willing to put in the time (1-2 coats per day). You can get away with two coats, but 3-5 will probably look nicer and be a bit more durable. This will be a great long-lasting finish.
If you just want a fast solution, I'd suggest spray shellac. You'll need 2-3 cans, so its a bit more expensive, but it dries fast (~15 mins) between coats so you can do the whole thing in a single sitting. The solvent dissolves previous layers so you don't need to sand.
Thanks for the additional tips. I am not in a rush so I think I'll take the time to get the extra coats of poly done.
Awesome, thank you for the tips!
I am not a specialist by far but l've used boiled linseed oil more than a few times to seal wood and give it a light color, a smoother surface. This would be okay for things that don't get a lot of wear, as it doesn't really protect against damage or water.
From what l remember you can use furniture varnish(not sure of any specific names) to protec against scratches. Wax is a thing as well but l don't expect that to go well with wear and hot things (coffee cups).