Matte Finish for Pens

[phrog]

I'm going to be turning some pens for presents in the next few weeks. I've read and watched as turners use BLO and CA for finishes. I would like to know what to use for finishing if you want a matte finish instead of a glossy finish on some of the pens. I thought of not using a finish at all but was warned that oil from the fingers will eventually cause problems. I know a lot of you guys turn and was wondering if anyone has a suggestion. Thanks.

[Whaler]

I have started using the walnut oil/shellac/wax mixture from The Doctors Woodshop and it gives a nice natural finish.
http://doctorswoodshop.com/?tx=9WE04...0&item_number=

[BigguyZ]

I do CA, but when I get to the sanding stage with MicroMesh, I stop at a lower grit. So you still get consisten, smoth results, you just don't polish it up to the high shine you do otherwise.

[jking]

Both are good suggestions above. You could also use Deft laquer & knock the shine down with MM.

[leehljp]

I do CA, but when I get to the sanding stage with MicroMesh, I stop at a lower grit. So you still get consisten, smoth results, you just don't polish it up to the high shine you do otherwise.

I agree with BigguyZ and the CA will give a great protection. Below is a link in which I give a visible examples of your wish:

http://www.penturners.org/forum/show...ighlight=shine

Below the top post at the # 6 post of RussFairfield (now deceased) gives a brief discussion in which he feels that "tactile feel" is often based on visual perception.

One word of warning: regular use of a pen with the CA flat finish will cause shiny spots over time in the same way that some keys on a keyboard of a computer takes on a shine after a year or two of use.

[phrog]

Thanks to all who responded. A lot of good info.
Richard