MDF Finish?

[RJD2]

I am at the point where a decision needs to be made regarding what type of finish to be utilized on my BT3100's mobile base that is primarily MDF. What are my options as far as paint, stain, or a wipe-on poly are concerned? What would ultimatey give me the best results?

[Bruce Cohen]

laminate workd really good on MDF, everything looks crappy, IMHO.

Bruce

[RodKirby]

I always brush on satin clear acrylic (=water based) - one coat on surfaces that that wont normally be touched, 2-3 on others. I've found wipe-on (anything) doesn't work very well on MDF.

As others have said, MDF edges slurp it up.

[newood2]

I just finished router cabinet and BT3 base cabinet all made with MDF(except drawers).
I spray painted everything with BEHR latex primer and high gloss acrylic finish using the Wagner HVLP conversion gun.
I added flotrol(4oz to quart) and water(approx 1/3cup), enough to get a nice spray mist. One coat primer,sand with 220, two thin finish coats ,use abrasive pad between finish coats.
I smooth out the MDF edges using sandpaper grades 120-150-180-220-320. This goes pretty fast.
Came out real nice, no drips or brush marks, edges smooth as glass

Howie

[ejs1097]

I use danish oil, and I like the look of MDF for shop surfaces.

[Curly Qsawn]

A Rustoleum Hammered finish is suppose to be nice. I use spar varnish for bases and such.

[bigsteel15]

laminate workd really good on MDF, everything looks crappy, IMHO.

Bruce

Have you looked at Mr Kirby's shop pictures?

[bfrikken]

II like the look of MDF for shop surfaces.

Agreed! Me too.