I normally try to save the original. I start by masking of the porcelain to prevent damage. I sand the underside of the handle first. using 220 grit. When sanding the top side of the handle I begin with the angles on the ends of the handle. I wrap my sandpaper around a small block of scrap oak to help maintain a flat surface. I sand at the same angle and with the grain, then I move on to the sides where the top and bottom of the handle come together. Once that is done I work on the top of the handle again with the sandpaper wrapped around the block and keeping with the grain until the surface cleans up. I also run 3/0 or 4/0 steel wool keeping with the grain.
Depending on how light or dark the wood is I then choose what stain to use. I mask off the lid with several layers of paper being sure to overlap. You do not want stain soaking through, it will put stains on your weathered warrior. I will apply the stain and let it soak for a few minutes or hours. Wipe off the excess and decide whether to apply another coat. Sometimes I use a few different shades to get to the shade I want. After the staining process is finished I will allow the stain to dry for a few days wiping off any spots where the stain has pooled or sweated out on the surface.
I then use Minwax Hellmsman satin spray urethane. Before I spray it, I place the can in a bowl of hot water for 5-10 to make it thinner. I think the warmer thinner urethane lays a little bit smoother. When spraying the bottom of the handle I turn the lid upside down. Multiple thinner coats are better than a few thick coats. I will reapply a second coat in an hour or so. Let the urethane dry for about three days. Lightly buff the finish with 4/0 steel wool, blow handle and paper off with a compressor to remove dust and particles from the steel wool. Then apply another 2 coats. I usually repeat the process 3 times.
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Topic: Patent pending DEMO kettle (Read 3870 times)