Category Archives: Finshes

Paints, Clear Finishes, Airbrushes, etc

Mohawk No-Blush Plus Retarder

Photo: Mohawk No-Blush Plus Retarder (no_blush_retarder_00.png)

I have a love-hate relationship with Mohawk (brand) "No Blush Plus Retarder (MS103-0475)". It can save a project, or it can really screw things up if you spray it on to heavy! A little dab'll do ya!

When you spray on a clear finish, sometimes it will blush. Blushing is white cloudiness due to trapped moisture (from humidity, steam, etc). It can happen on hot and humid days in the summer or any rainy day.

When it happens it is really frustrating!

Continue reading Mohawk No-Blush Plus Retarder →

Wire Hanger Holds Work While Finishing

Photo: Wire Hanger Holds Work While Finishing (hang_up_finishing_00)

Here is my “Wire Hanger Holds Work While Finishing” tip that appeared in the “Tips” section on page 20 of the AAW August 2025 “American Woodturner” Journal. Click here for the PDF. Continue reading Wire Hanger Holds Work While Finishing →

Montana Acrylic Markers

Photo: Montana Acrylic Markers (blick_montana_markers)

I like to paint the edge of my plates or shallow bowls black with a Montana Cans (brand) 15mm wide "Shock Black" (color) marker.

Montana markers work a lot better than Sharpie markers, etc because they are paint markers that apply acrylic paint. The acrylic paint is thin like ink. It dries to a flat finish. No gloss. Thus, I always top coat my finished pieces with a semi gloss finish. Continue reading Montana Acrylic Markers →

Makeup Sponges for Chroma-Guilt

Photo: Makeup Sponges for Chroma-Guilt (makeup_sponges_00)

I have been watching Gourd Art videos. They use Makeup Sponges to apply a thin layer of paint or stain.

I tried applying Chroma-Guilt with a Makeup Sponge. It works great! A lot better than using your finger. You can apply a thin layer with out getting it into your carved or burned pattern! Continue reading Makeup Sponges for Chroma-Guilt →

Carl’s Turntable for Finishing

Photo: Carl's Turntable (turn_table_00)

Carl’s Turntable

I often use my homemade turntable (aka lazy susan) when painting and finishing things. It really helps me get a nice even finish on things with out finger prints.

Continue reading Carl’s Turntable for Finishing →

Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint

Photo: Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint (blick_brush_paint_order)

Click here for a printable PDF of the above or click here to order from the PUBLIC wish list at https://www.dickblick.com/lists/wishlist/RTC7CC6JLRZF1

I just want my lout Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint

My students asked me to recommend some paint brushes. Like the ones I use in my studio for acrylic painting with the lathe running. Brushes that are not kids junk. Reasonably good quality, not to expensive. Continue reading Paint Brushes & Acrylic Paint →