Basswood seems to be a favorite with Model Shipways and others, it's cheap and readily available. If it is to be stained, as with deck planking or hull planking, I have found that a PRE-STAIN CONDITIONER dramatically improves the final appearance. Basswood, being somewhat soft and porous does not absorb stains evenly, many times absorbs too much stain, and details may be lost that you have labored to achieve. MINWAX makes a very good product for this purpose, also THOMSON'S WATER SEAL works quite well and you may already have some in your garage! Good Luck! :paper:

Lee:
Did you use the conditioner on you Viking Ship? It looks great. :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

James, Thanks for your comments, much appreciated. The conditioner was not used on this model as it was a different type of wood(s).

Hi Lee --

I have used Thomson's before , with good results . Will try your suggestion of using pre-stain conditioner on the basswood . Thanks for the tip .


HOLD FAST !

Hello Lee,I agree with you about the use of the pre stain conditioner.Especially on such a large area such as a ships deck.I am a painting contractor and we use this often.It gives the stained wood a uniform color through out.Cheers Walter :banna:

Hi Lee:

I once used Thompsons water seal on a boad, I used to shore up an aluminum door hood, purpose to keep the wood from rotting after it rained, never thought of using it in this manner.

Thanks for the heads up :banna: :banna: :banna:


Landlubber7
Henry