Finishing California redwood for a bed frame?

Question

I'm looking at what finish would be best for a redwood bed frame. I would like the wood to look natural, warmish color, and a bit of a satiny feel. I've done a few trials and here is where I stand (see pics):

polycrylic satin looks OK but dulls the details in the wood a bit (compared to others I tried) and I seem to be leaving streak marks
shellac looked better than poly but gets stained by water (experience on a diff project)
wax looked the best IMO, and felt the best but provide no protection (and redwood is quite soft)
Danish oil has a nice overall color but made some parts look grayish and other parts look blotchy (could be I haven't applied it correctly).

Would you guys have any suggestions?

Paul Davis · Answer

I suggest the wax! I think it looks best, and it provides enough protection. Redwood used to be commonly used for outdoor building projects that would be exposed to water because it is durable - at least the heartwood is.

Because this will be indoor, wax will be fine. You may want to re-apply in a couple of years, but in reality, this wood will endure with strength.

user1038793 · Answer

Howards is (I presume we're talking about the same Howard's) "Howards FEED-N-WAX" (google it), it is an "original blend of beeswax, Brazilian carnauba wax, mineral oil, and orange oil".  It smells great and it easy to use (like any of the oils).

I have used it and I like it but I'd worry that it would wear off (the wax would) and leave no protection.  That might not be an issues for a bed (table, countertop, sink surround certainly an issue).

Remember mineral oil does not "dry" or evaporate it just sits there so repeated washings will remove it - again not a problem for a bed.

I used Howards on old redwood walls that had become scuffed and dingy over the years.  A light sand and the Howards did a beautiful job revitalizing that wood.

Finishing California redwood for a bed frame?

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