Need Advice Clear Finish For Ash

[LeftyTom]

Thanks, everyone, for the help.

I decided to go with General Finishes Flat Out Flat.

 

[Berta]

Water based finishes WILL NOT add an amber color to the project. Oil based finishes will. I used to be a decorative painter. Always used water based. My pieces are still nice.

 

[Willemjm]

FWIW, I have done a number of pieces in ash. Love the wood!!

Ash wood (e.g., white ash, Fraxinus americana) contains phenolic compounds that react with oxygen and UV light, causing a gradual shift toward a warmer, yellowish tone over time. This is a natural process and occurs regardless of the finish, though a clear coat can slow it down.

A clear coat that does not amber (i.e., one formulated to stay clear rather than develop a yellowish tint) will minimize additional color change from the finish itself. However, it cannot completely prevent the wood’s natural oxidation. The wood will still yellow slightly beneath the coating due to its inherent chemistry and light exposure.

Casual dining set, Cherry with Ash

 

[Jack A.]

FWIW, I have done a number of pieces in ash. Love the wood!!

Ash wood (e.g., white ash, Fraxinus americana) contains phenolic compounds that react with oxygen and UV light, causing a gradual shift toward a warmer, yellowish tone over time. This is a natural process and occurs regardless of the finish, though a clear coat can slow it down.

A clear coat that does not amber (i.e., one formulated to stay clear rather than develop a yellowish tint) will minimize additional color change from the finish itself. However, it cannot completely prevent the wood’s natural oxidation. The wood will still yellow slightly beneath the coating due to its inherent chemistry and light exposure.

Casual dining set, Cherry with Ash

View attachment 239407

That's really nice. Two of my favorite woods.

 

[Hand tool crafted]

FWIW, I have done a number of pieces in ash. Love the wood!!

Ash wood (e.g., white ash, Fraxinus americana) contains phenolic compounds that react with oxygen and UV light, causing a gradual shift toward a warmer, yellowish tone over time. This is a natural process and occurs regardless of the finish, though a clear coat can slow it down.

A clear coat that does not amber (i.e., one formulated to stay clear rather than develop a yellowish tint) will minimize additional color change from the finish itself. However, it cannot completely prevent the wood’s natural oxidation. The wood will still yellow slightly beneath the coating due to its inherent chemistry and light exposure.

Casual dining set, Cherry with Ash

View attachment 239407

That is STUNNING!