live edge finish

by Joe
(North Vancouver B.C. Canada)

I am making some serving boards out of Arbutus. I will be using walnut oil to finish the boards once I have them planed and sanded. I just need to know what I should use to finish the live edge. I am considering varnishing the edge, as it would not be used to serve food on, or should I just use the walnut oil as well?


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Ron here...
Just use the walnut oil. Re-sand after the grain rises after using a bit and then re-oil often.

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Dec 03, 2015
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by: Joe

Ron,

Since we are at it, i thought I would ask a couple more questions:

is there a food safe wood putty, as the wood I am using has some checks and holes in it. Nothing major but I would like them filled as apposed to open. You mentioned washing the wood. This is the first time I have heard about this. What do you mean?

Cheers
Joe.


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Check Lee Valley... they have some things for filling cracks.

Wetting the wood raises the grain. Then sand it. Each time you do that it will rise less and be real smooth.
Dec 02, 2015
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by: Joe

Thanks Ron. I also wanted to know if I should sand the edge as I wanted to keep it as natural as possible. Are you suggesting a very light sand?

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I was talking about the surface. The edges depend on what you want. So do what you like. I prefer smooth everywhere but your preference should win out.

Yes light sand after washing until it develops a patina-like smooth finish. Add oil often!

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