Natural Finish (Newbie)

There are a few blogs and threads to check out:
http://lumberjocks.com/jocks/Karson/blog/1326
http://lumberjocks.com/topics/4512#reply-46665

Some finished “cure” and seal the wood and even create a durable surface on the wood while others just help seal the wood porse and such and still allow the feel of the wood to come through but leave it unprotected from little dings and scratches, which the curing finishes will protect against a little bit, nothing is immune to life though.

Welcome to LJs!

-- Rich, WNY, www.nyrockingchairs.com

Check out Steve’s forum.

-- My favorite piece is my last one, my best piece is my next one.

Hi Adam:

By cedar, I’m assuming you mean aromatic Eastern Red Cedar.
Generally, you want to avoid oil finishes on cedar because the wood contains natural compounds that are known to inhibit the proper curing of drying oils, such as linseed and tung oil. Besides, oil finishes will add some color that you indicated you did not want.

If you want a clear, yet protective finish, then I recommend using a brushed on water based polycrylic varnish.
We do a lot of cedar furniture in Kentucky and this is the finish of choice.

Spray finishing is also a possibility if you have the equipment and skills.

-- Randy (P), rustic wood crafts, Morning View, Kentucky