Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/23/2009

Question
QUESTION: I have sanded a set of bamboo furniture and intend to put clear gloss on do i need to use a primer

ANSWER: Hi Alfred
Nice to hear from you.
It would not be a primer you apply before the clear gloss.
Primer is used under paint.
I think what you are referring to is a sealer. These sealers are clear and folks often use them before applying the clear gloss.
In some cases its desirable to use them but I don't feel its necessary in your case.
You see Alfred, a lot of folks apply stains to color the wood before they apply their clear gloss. The stains often absorb unevenly making a mess of the wood. A sealer is therefore used before the stain. This prevents unever absorbtion.
In your case you are not applying stain so its not necessary to use a sealer.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen


---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I cant seem to get tsp how else can I get rid of old clear varnish besides sanding.There is however a product which says apply and remove by flushing with water. Is this safe and will it spoil my bamboo furniture
Thank You.

ANSWER: Hi Again Alfred
Thank you for the nice ratings. It makes helping others worthwhile to know we are appreciated.
If the product you refer to is meant to remove a finish from wood furniture it will not harm your bamboo furniture.
But its always advisable to test these things before going to far.
Good Luck with your project.
Eileen

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: i have some thick Japanese bamboo any creative suggestions on using them for home renovations or garden landscapes

Answer
Hi Again Alfred
Not sure if I'm very creative but when I think of bamboo I always think of wind chimes.
Here are the directions.

http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Bamboo-Wind-Chime

Alfred bamboo wind chimes sound wonderful in a garden.
And try here for some further inspiration.

http://www.bamboocraft.net/

The possibilities are endless.
Good Luck
Eileen