Sanding & finishing wooden jewelry
Hi all,
I'd appreciate some advice for a jewelry project I am working on.
I'm using reclaimed skateboards (7 ply Canadian maple, approx 10mm thick) to make bangles, earrings, etc. Have a look at this image to get the idea:
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mQHEXLbvGt...oard-squar.jpg
Firstly: I've run into a problem caused by there being different colored veneers in each skateboard. When I'm sanding the exposed veneers the sanding dust is coloring the lighter veneers. I've tried wiping the piece down with a wet cloth between sandings, but I find this causes the end-grains to swell and I need to sand again. I'm woried that if I don't wipe away the colored sanding dust between sandings I'll rub the colored dust into the piece, thereby marking the lighter colored veneers.
Secondly: I'd like some advice on choosing and applying a finish to my pieces. I'm after the same finish as in the photo above. I want to bring out the grain and deepen the hue of stained veneers. I'd also like to seal the pieces with a satin/gloss coat (undecided). I'm thinking a poly aerosol for the sealant?
And lastly: Considering I'll be applying a sealant to the jewelry, how finely do I need to sand before sealing? From what I understand it is unnecessary to sand finer than 400 grit as the sealant will 'fill the gaps' from there. Thoughts?
Thanks in advance!
Paul