I building the tall case clock that you presented in Fine Woodworking. I was wondering about the finish and whether it was the finish described in
the Nov/Dec 2005 article on an antique finish for tiger maple. Thanks in advance for your time.
- Robert I.
Jarrettsville, MD
Our Expert
Yes, the finish that I discussed in my article in Fine Woodworking is the finish that I use on all tiger maple pieces. As maple ages it turns from a creamy white to a deep amber color; however, the oxidation process takes many years to develop the deep, rich color found on antiques.
A water-based aniline dye adds the color while the wiping varnish provides depth and helps to highlight the dramatic tiger-stripe grain. The final coat is amber shellac. Amber shellac provides additional warmth to the color as well as a richness unlike any other finish.
