Wood generally changes colour when the finish is applied - something dull and lifeless suddenly springs to life to reveal all its glory.
But I find while I'm working on a piece I like to, once in a while, get a glimpse at how it's going to turn out - for example is that ash going to contrast with jatoba nicely or nastily?
Obviously experience helps a lot here, but I do resort to a quick wipe of white spirit once in a while to get some idea.
My question - aside from white spirit, are there any other ways, tips or tricks to get an idea of how something is likely to finish without actually applying finish?
The only thing I've ever used is mineral spirits (what you call white spirits?). Water works too, but doesn't dry as fast and is more likely to raise grain.
I like mineral spirits. I have used water, but it can raise the grain on some woods. I have also used denatured alcohol, but it evaporates quickly and also has a tendency to raise the grain.
But you do need to apply finish. Wetting with anything will show colour but not proper depth or sheen which are important. I always take a longish finish sanded strip, separate into areas with masking tape and apply every finish at my disposal. When dry it's easy to see which one is right and how the different woods look next to each other. Rather than being disappointed, it is worth the trouble.
gene
Thanks to all.
I tried DNA (once I'd worked out that I didn't need to be recreating a scene from Macbeth and boiling up my hair and toenail clippings), but that did raise the grain.
I think waho/Gene's idea is a good one - I really ought to do that - I must get away from an "instant gratification" mindset.
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