custom scrollsaw bench

[Dean A]

Hello,

 In the introduction page I explained I was rebuilding a new workshop. The first thing I needed to make was a bench for my scroll saw. I built a heavy duty bench from 2x4 and 3/4 pine plywood (pics will be posted when it's finished).

 Question......what finish is good to use? I've heard BLO, Danish oil and varnish. I was thinking varnish for the frame and legs, not too sure what to put on the work top. Any suggestions would be appreciated. BTW...I'm building my work shop in my basement if that matters

 Thanks
 Dean

[dgman]

Hey Dean, A work bench does not need a finish! A work bench gets used and abused and the finish will be the first thing that gets abused. When I built my work bench many years ago I applied Danish oil to it just to give it a finished look, but no topcoat. If that's all you want to do, I would us a 50/50 mix of boiled linseed oil and mineral spirits. It wont protect the bench, but will give it a finished look.

[Al W]

+1

[Dean A]

 thx, does BLO have strong fumes?

[dgman]

It's not too bad, but you will want to apply it out doors or in the shop, or in a well ventilated area.

[Dean A]

thank you, I am building my shop in the basement. Haven't got as far as thinking about how or where I'm going to finish my projects. That will be another post someday

[TheMelster]

BLO,,,, cbs or nbc just recently did a piece on spontaneous combustion of BLO rags and papertowel. Dangerous stuff.

http://abcnews.go.com/Video/playerIndex?id=17438033

[GrayBeard]

ALL used rags, paper towels, etc. that have been used with ANY solvent should be allowed to dry fully and the placed in a metal container with a tight fitting lid!!!

~~~GB~~~

[Al W]

OKAY FOLKS, THIS IS ONE VIDEO WE SHOULD ALL WATCH IF WE USE SOLVENTS, AND ESPECIALLY BOILED LINSEED OIL.

KEEP LEARNING AND MY THANKS TO THE MELSTER.

AL

[mrsn]

My work bench is straight 2x4's. it is heavy, durable and awesome. Every now and then I replace a 2x4 or two from the top if I have done something really hard on them. The only finish on my bench is what has spilled/transfered/oversprayed from my projects. It is pretty easy to tell where on my bench I sit to stain and where on my bench I sit to paint

[Danny]

Gotta throw my 2cents in....  I picked up a couple pieces of COUNTER TOP.  Like the normal kitchen ones.  Has a rounded front and a lil raised back.  Works great. 
Bet the wood underneath is still in new shape.  LOL  Danny  :+}