OSMO Spray PolyX Gloss

[Randy Anderson]

Long ago I standardized on two finish methods for my large hollow forms - hand polished shellac and automotive polyurethane clear coat. Which one depends on the piece size, destination, expected sale value, uniqueness, etc. Both take time and lots of practice to get right. I've always felt investing in the time to learn to use the tools you have is better than always chasing the next tool, finish or gimmick that will all of a sudden make your work easier and your results better. That said, every once in a while it's worthwhile to step outside your box and try something different. Finishes is one of those topics that can be a complex and confusing rabbit hole of opinions, options, products, costs, application methods, etc.

I've decided to try OSMO's spray Polyx gloss (3082) and see how it compares to my shellac finishes. They don't make a product that will create the build depth and crystal clear look of spray polyurethane with a polyester base coat underneath but, their spray gloss could be comparable to a well polished shellac finish. I searched the forum and see lots of you use OSMO. The specific products and application methods vary a bit but I didn't find anyone using their spray product going for a high gloss finish.

Question - anyone have experience with it? I've gotten some info from OSMO (they're very responsive and helpful) but sometimes real world experience is the best. A lot of their focus is on durability and stain resistance since the target use is primarily furniture and floors. Neither of these are really critical for a display piece.

 

[robo hippy]

I tried the Osmo once, and just didn't like it. I don't think it was their newer "Poly" version though. I also tried Rubio Monokote, and like every one else that uses it, I put on 2 coats. I am now experimenting with the "LED finishes" which can cure and harden instantly with the proper UV lights. Their bigger light for wood floors is about $1700. They do have a smaller light for about $600 and an accelerator, but I haven't bought one yet. I am just putting my boxes in the window sill. That seems to work. They call it "LED" finishes because they think there is/are bad things associated with UV lights..... Ah, marketing!

This is a link to the LED finishes that started me thinking about it. Two things Of note, one is that you do raise the grain, but you don't sand it off. Two is that they use a coat of "ceramic" top coat that comes from the auto industry to protect cars. He does sell his own version, I went to a auto supply place and picked up some Griots, which is green, but that color doesn't color the wood. It may have many uses in the shop like for any cast iron.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wC5dO--NpnE&t=252s


robo hippy