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Experience With Osmo

5.4K views 20 replies 10 participants last post by  dbraz77  
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have limited experience with Osmo Polyx-Oil. Last year I used it to finish a number of small projects and so far I like the results. I am contemplating it's use for a project I am planning but would like to know if any one has used this and then top coated it with laquer. I know that I probably could hit it with dewaxed shellac between the two but I'm looking to streamline the process if possible. I know that sometimes things appear to be working only to go south 6 months to a year later so I'm hoping someone has blazed this path before me. Thanks
 
#4 ·
My usual go to is Waterlox but it builds rather slowly when wiped on and as this project will have many intersecting surfaces on different planes I wanted to avoid any buildup in crevices and intersecting surfaces. I find that a thin coat or two of lacquer adds depth to the finish in the way clear coat adds depth to an automotive finish. I appreciate the help.
 
#6 ·
The piece is designed to hold jewelry and as such it will potentially be handled daily. These are made from contrasting mixed species, Lacquer alone doesn't give the appearance I am looking for. I like the way Osmo brings out the grain and offers the coloration I prefer with an easy, low odor application. As I stated above the lacquer would add depth to the finish and perhaps a bit of resistance to hand oils over time? I plan to do a test piece as soon as it warms up here but even that will not tell me whether the lacquer to Osmo bond will endure over time. That is why I was hoping someone had already blazed that path and could let me know if the combo lasted over time.
 
#8 · (Edited by Moderator)
I have used Osmo extensively. No do not top coat it. It will stand up to handling (IMHO). It is intended as a floor finish after all.

I use the satin, I put on three (very thin) coats then rub with #0000 wool and lube, then a fourth. The result is outstanding.

- BlueRidgeDog
I'm going to be finishing a walnut desk with this stuff - assuming my client okays it, and I think he will.

What kind of lube, if you don't mind? Thanks!
 
#13 ·
I do overnight between coats. My standard is first coat medium, wipe off excess after ten to twenty minutes. Second coat is light, third very light, then rub out. Fourth is just a wispier at that point (the wood is sealed after the first, so successive coats are fast and use little material). You could cut it to just three and rub out before the third, but I have found the four coat method makes such an unusual and perfect feel to the hand while protecting without a plastic like look for touch.
 
#14 ·
What are you all using to apply the Osmo? I'm trying some on a walnut serving tray sanded to 220.

I tried both wiping on with a thick paper "cloth" and then a foam brush for the second coat. So far, the finish is somewhat rough. I haven't tried buffing it yet, but as this is more of a learning piece, I'm open to any suggestions.
 
#15 ·
What are you all using to apply the Osmo? I m trying some on a walnut serving tray sanded to 220.

I tried both wiping on with a thick paper "cloth" and then a foam brush for the second coat. So far, the finish is somewhat rough. I haven t tried buffing it yet, but as this is more of a learning piece, I m open to any suggestions.

- JoeFuture
They sell applicator pads, I usually just use cotton pads. (White:)) You can apply with foam brush, then rub it in with a cloth. Larger pieces just pour it on an start rubbing.
 
#18 ·
You shouldn't and I didn't have to sand between coats on walnut (after my final hit with 220 grit), but if you're getting bumps then it sounds like you might need to.

What kind of wood is it (not that I've used it on anything other than walnut)? That might account for your different experience - it might be getting absorbed, causing the grain to rise. Or you could be using too much, or you didn't sand the wood with fine enough grit for this finish, or or or.

In other words, I'm writing excellent words without really knowing what I'm talking about. :)

My guess is that you won't have to sand more than once.
 
#21 ·
I use osmo on everything from jewelry boxes to dinning room sets (walnut, wormy maple, exotics)...I apply with the osmo pads or the white scotch bright pads (they are non abrasive). The wood absorbs the most on the first coat (let it sit for 10-15 minutes and buff out), wait overnight and apply the next coat. I usually do 3-4 coats.