Preferred finishes on Cedar

[tom.m]

I recently cut a bunch of small blanks out of Aromatic Cedar to make some platters, saucers and bowls. For the finish, I've experimented with Cedar oil, tung oil and Mylan's friction polish. Frankly, I'm not happy with any of those and am wondering what other folks are using? Thanks much.

 

[Raymond]

Interesting question, Tom. I have never put anything on aromatic cedar; why do you want to seal the pores of the cedar?

 

[tom.m]

Interesting question, Tom. I have never put anything on aromatic cedar; why do you want to seal the pores of the cedar?

Raymond, the last couple of pieces I turned, I did not use any kind of finish; I just left them natural. I didn't know if other people do it that way or put another kind of finish on it. Leaving it natural looks fine and certainly smells good. Don't know how long the aroma will last. Thanks.

 

[Raymond]

The aroma to human noses does not last that long but to insects it last quite a long time. That is why you see instructions on cedar sticks for closets that say to refresh the scent from periodically with a little sandpaper.

I personally do not put a finish on cedar but then again, I don't use it that often either.

 

[sawman101]

I've used a sprayed lacquer finish with excellent results, but that was on flat work.

 

[Jeff]

If you prefer the odor of red cedar then leave it alone or add some Cedar oil from Giles & Kendall. It's not a protective finish but often used inside of old blanket chests that needed "refreshing".

If you want to seal the pieces use Zinsser rattle can spray shellac.