Stabilizing with Polyurethane, but looking for something different...

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Xephius

Xephius

Member
Joined
Feb 24, 2009
Messages
36
Location
Houston TX, USA
Hello again IAP people....

So I have been playing with my HF Vac/Pressure pot, and have had good results, but not the results I wanted...

I have been using Polyurethane and Acetone to stabilize my woods. It works great for making a punky, soft or spalated wood solid enough to turn, but not making it "plastic" like. The best way I can explain it is that the mixture gets into the fibers and makes them semi-solid. But it does not fill any voids, and it leaves the wood to feel "woody". Also, I am using a "fast" drying hard floor gloss that dries solid in about 2 days.

What I am looking for is something more "plasic" like in the finish. My hope is that someone can suggest something other than Resinol 90C, as I can only find it in 4 gallons for $300. I don't mind the dedicated fridge/stove setup, but I hate to spend $300 on an experiment.... Does anyone know of a supplier who will sell smaller amounts, or suggest a different solution that will give me a good effect?

Thanks,
-X
 
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NewLondon88 said:
have you tried stabilizing with plexiglass yet? Or with PR? Wood hardener?
Click to expand...

No, I wanted to ask the forums for their advice and expertise before I spend any money. My hope is I can get some input on what will give me that effect before I try blindly. Have you stabilized with all those solutions? If so, how do they compare to each other? What are the benefits and draw backs of each? Is Resinol the only way to get the glass like finish, or can I accomplish this another way?

I eagerly await your response.

-X
 
To date no one has been able to duplicate the stabilization that the commercial companies use , some have come close but still not perfect . As Victor said above there is a new product that holds allot of promise . Right now it is only available in 6 gallon containers but will be available in quart sizes within the next two weeks .
 
ldb2000 said:
To date no one has been able to duplicate the stabilization that the commercial companies use , some have come close but still not perfect . As Victor said above there is a new product that holds allot of promise . Right now it is only available in 6 gallon containers but will be available in quart sizes within the next two weeks .
Click to expand...

I have been reading through the threads trying to assemble some data points. It would seem that I will not be happy with anything less than "professional" stabilization. So, I suppose I need to build a professional setup and use the same materials they do.

To be clear, I mean no disrespect to any pro-stabilizing shops out there. I am not looking to do this myself because I am trying to save money. (If that were the case, I would just go buy a Bic and be done with it.) But I want the freedom and availability to do what I want, when I want, and to the quality level I feel appropriate. So please don't take my interest in learning to do this myself as anything but personal growth and the underlying drive to have every tool ever created in my shop.

So, it would seem that I am going to need to get my shop setup for the Resinol, but will keep an eye on the new stuff. If anyone would be willing to sell me a quart or so of Resinol (Activated so it can be shipped without Hazmat dangers) so I can try a batch before I dive in with 4 gallons, I would be eternally greatful.

Thanks,
-X
 
Just as a heads up John . The professional shops spend thousands on equipment to do commercial grade stabilization . It's not just the right chemicals , commercial grade stabilization requires heat and pressure equipment that is not available to the general public . I do understand your desire to "get it right" and do it your self , hell , look at my photo gallery , as you will see I am not happy with turning beautiful pens but want to be a true "Penmaker" not just a "Penturner" (no disrespect to the penturners out there , it's just the way I am) but there are some things that I have had to make do with . If I had my way I would have a full metal working shop with a true kiln for casting gold and silver but there are limits to my purse strings . I really do wish you luck with your quest . Please keep us informed of your progress , if you get it done there may still be hope for my quest .
 
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Butch,

I do appreciate the heads up and the vote of confidence. If your image gallery is any indication, it would seem there is hope for both of us.

At this point, I will just have to see when I can get the setup running. I realize the pro's spend big bucks to do what they do reliably, in volume, and profitably. Luckily, I only need to do the first. :wink:

I have seen your work before, I have always appreciated it. I am working hard to become a penmaker, and I fully realized the difference. My wife calls it "Art that escapes the form". Once I get good enough, or more like confident enough, I will post up a finished pen. Until then, I will stick to the equipment forums, but I'm working on it. :)

-X
 
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