The last steps to complete our plate is to apply a finish.
The finishing process gives many carvers headaches and can lead to much frustration.
With this in mind, I’ve created a series of finishing lessons in the My Chip Carving Video Vault.
I won’t create a full-blown finishing video for this class but instead will encourage you to check out the finishing series already created.
Here are the steps to finish your plate.
1. Remove all leftover pattern lines. The following video shows you how this is done.
2. Lightly sand and remove the dust with a vacuum cleaner. Apply one coat of sanding sealer. You can brush this on as it will soak into the wood and not pool in the bottom of your carving. Lightly sand and remove the dust after it has dried (1-2 hours)
3. SPRAY on 3 coats of satin lacquer. Lightly sand and remove the dust in between coats. 1 hour dry time in between coats. DO NOT brush on this finish. If you do it will pool in your carving and make a good carving very ugly.
4. With a small brush, carefully apply a gel stain in the carved areas. Wipe off any excess stain that gets on the surface using a clean cotton rag. Don’t over brush the stain. Just make sure to apply an even coat. Let it dry overnight.
5. Carefully reapply gel stain to areas that are lighter than other areas. Usually this is the with the grain areas of your carving. Let it dry 24 hours.
6. Spray a final top coat of satin lacquer. Let it dry. You’re done!
