I'm making some wardrobes out of Birch Ply, which is lovely stuff. I want to use a clear varnish that will show off the wood without colouring it. Something with a nice satin finish. What would the locostbuilders collective suggest?

Have a look at http://www.osmouk.com/osmopolyx.cfm?chapter=29

Might give you a few choices


Roger

Osmo Poly X hard wax oil.

It will bring the grain colours out beautifully, leave a very attractive stain finish and wear very well. I have used on various timber work throughout my house over the last ten years. Much prefered to varnish which leaves too much build up on the surface. Our oak floors have only just been retreated ince new after a great deal of punishment and have come up stunning again.

Don't be put off by the price. You will use much less than you think, it goes a very, very long way.

i personally love rustins danish oil. Soaks in rather than ruining it like varnish would. Normally used on hardwood kitchen worktops.

I would of used an oil instead of varnish.
All my bedroom furniture that I made in European oak is coated in Teak Oil. Covers well and its easy to do repairs and touch ups.

Brad.

Get some Briwax on it. Smells great

I'd Danish Oil or Tung Oil if you can find some in natural colour - avoid the tinted versions Rustins is probably the best - Colron seems variable. I use them for knife scales.

Although I've heard great things about the Osmo products as above - mainly for flooring.

JC

If you still want a varnish, I've had good results with "Ronseal Quick Drying Varnish" on birch-veneered ply. It's water-based, and each coat dries in about 20 minutes (dries enough for the next coat, anyway). I apply it with a lint-free cloth rather than a brush, and rub down lightly between coats.

It's only good for indoors, but it gives a decent finish and barely colours the wood.

Thanks for the suggestions. I'm building a nice supply of offcuts so I'll try a couple of things and present the results to 'er indoors.