I recently completed a project using a mix of stains and finishes, and it really made me appreciate the subtleties of wood grain. Each technique imparted a different character to the final piece, particularly when I used a shellac topcoat — talk about depth and clarity! I’m curious if anyone else has insights or favorite methods that bring out the best in your woodwork.
I totally get what you mean about the depth from shellac; i recently used it on a walnut table, and it really made the grain pop. But , the prep can be a pain — make sure to sand properly or the finish won’t lay right.
I love how shellac brings out the grain too! When I used it on my last cherry project, I found that doing a light scuff sand between coats really helped achieve that smooth finish everyone raves about. It’s a bit of extra work, but so worth it.