How to finish cherry and walnut

[jerry walters]

During the time I have been scrolling I have used primarily oak and poplar. Three years ago I bought some cherry and oak. My question to you is how to put a finish on these two woods. I afraid I might hide the beauty of these two woods if I finish them the way I do oak and poplar which is Minwax products and Deft clear wood finish.

Jerry

[Bill WIlson]

The color and grain of cherry and walnut really respond well to solvent based finishes.  I would avoid using any water based finishes as they will mute the appearance.

 

[Randyw81]

I agree with Bill.  I don't think water based finishes do anything for cherry or walnut.  I do a lot of Christmas ornaments in cherry and also some walnut pieces.  I usually use Minwax fast-dry urethane and it really accentuates the grain patterns in either of these woods.  I have successfully used solvent based stains on cherry but usually finish walnut with a clear finish. 

Edited May 16, 2023 by Randyw81
Added info

[Tom-in-Ashland]

If for indoor use I suggest Lacquer or super blond shellac.  

[Millwab]

Depending on the intended use of the project the final topcoat can very, but for me a 50-50 mix of BLO and MS on the bare wood really makes the beauty of cherry or walnut pop. 

[flarud]

I have used General Finishes Arm-R-Seal on both before.  Watch my short video to see the results. 

https://youtu.be/xsH8L9fNlrU

[Gonzo]

I use beeswax/mineral oil on a lot of my projects. 

[MarieC]

I use spray lacquer on my projects but I think I will try the General Finishes Arm-R-Seal.  I have heard other wood workers say they really like that.  A woman who refinishes antique furniture for a living says that is all she uses.

[Blaughn]

I apply danish oil, at least 7 days drying time and spray clear lacquer.  For wall plaques I am going to try french rubbed shellac.

[Tallbald]

I prefer a penetrating oil such as thinned tung or straight walnut oil from our grocery store. Several coats with drying in between sure brings out the grain for me on both walnut and cherry. Just my favorites. Don.

[Ron Johnson]

Before cutting the project I use a hand scrapper and

 

finish hand sanding with 400 grit sand paper. After cutting I wipe clean with a damp cheese cloth. I then apply a thin coat of polyurethane ( satin finish) with a fine brush and let dry for one day. I do this six times lightly sanding in between each coat with 2000 grit sand paper and wiping clean with a damp cheese cloth each time. My last procedure is lightly rubbing the project with 2000 grit sand paper wet with bees wax. I then finish polishing with cheese cloth. The final result is an unbelievable silky smooth finish.