The video “Homemade GRAVY makes the best wood finish ever!” is by Stumpy Nubs (James Hamilton). In this tutorial, Stumpy shares an old-world technique that can elevate any woodworking project to a new level of elegance and sophistication.
Understanding Open Grain Hardwoods
Many hardwoods, such as oak, ash, walnut, and hickory, feature what’s known as open grain. This means they have larger pores that create a textured surface, making them visually appealing but challenging to achieve a perfectly smooth finish. Even after extensive sanding, these woods can still feel rough to the touch and may not look as polished as desired, especially under bright light.
While some woodworkers opt for multiple coats of varnish to fill these pores, this can lead to a plastic-like appearance instead of the silky smoothness one might hope for. So, what’s the alternative? The answer lies in using “gravy” – a traditional method favored by many skilled woodworkers.
Why Use Gravy?
Gravy, in this context, refers to a mixture of an oil-based finish and fine sawdust from the wood itself. This method is not only effective but also organic, as it uses the wood for its own finishing process. This technique was popularized by the late Charles Neil, who taught that creating a slurry of oil and sawdust would fill the pores of the wood more naturally than synthetic fillers.
Gather Your Materials
- Oil-based Finish: You can use any oil-based finish, such as polyurethane, boiled linseed oil, or tongue oil. The key is to let it cure properly.
- Sanding Paper: Choose a cloth-backed sanding sheet or disc, ideally with a grit between 400 and 600. This will create a fine dust necessary for the gravy.
Creating the Gravy
To start, pour a puddle of your chosen oil-based finish right onto the wood surface. Then, using your sanding paper, begin sanding the finish into the wood. This process will create a slurry or “gravy” that combines the oil with fine wood dust, filling in the pores effectively.
Stumpy suggests that while hand sanding is perfectly acceptable, a random orbit sander can make the job much easier and faster, especially for larger projects. Just be cautious as some of the gravy may get on the sander, requiring a bit of cleanup afterward.
Application Process
Once the gravy is applied, use a spatula to spread it evenly across the surface, ensuring that you work it into any small cracks or imperfections. However, avoid large knots or gaps, as the mixture may not adhere properly and could shrink upon drying.
After applying the gravy, wipe away any excess and allow it to dry. It’s advisable to use an oil-based finish over the top for the best results. Stumpy shares that he achieved a beautiful satin sheen using two coats of wipe-on polyurethane, resulting in a glassy smooth surface.
Additional Tips for Success
When working with open grain hardwoods, Stumpy emphasizes the transformative effect of using gravy, especially on surfaces that will be frequently seen or touched. This technique not only enhances the appearance but also elevates the tactile experience of the finished product.
Choosing the Right Sandpaper
For those looking to achieve the best results, Stumpy recommends using 3M’s Cubitron 2 sandpaper. This innovative product is made with ceramic pyramids that cut through wood fibers more efficiently than traditional sandpapers, lasting significantly longer and providing a smoother finish.
Final Thoughts
The next time you’re tackling a project with open grain hardwood, consider incorporating this traditional gravy technique. Not only will it enhance the beauty of your work, but it will also add that luxurious feel that makes wood projects truly stand out. If you’re curious about improving your woodworking skills, give this method a try and see the difference it makes!