As you can see, there are still bits of paint I'd like to seal and also prevent any further cracking of the wood, etc.
Best way to seal?
by
Lynn
+14
I found this old frame and I'd like to hang it. It was dirty so I scrubbed off the lose paint (didn't want to remove all, just the lose stuff) and washed with bleach/dish soap (wanted to kill any mold, spiders, etc as it was in a basement for years!). I'd like to seal it somehow, but don't want to change the appearance (make it darker, shiny or anything like that). Would polyurethane change the appearance? Other suggestions?
you could use polyurethane to give it a protective coating or there are other sealers on the market too that will work
https://missmustardseed.com/cleaning-sealing-chipping-antique-pieces/#:~:text=The%20last%20step%20is%20to,paint%20and%20really%20seals%20it.
A clear polyurethane in a matt finish should provide the sealer coverage that you want without changing the appearance or make it shiny. Rustoleum is a good brand and I'd suggest the spray type. Maybe 2 - 3 light coats.
I would use a polycrylic (water based) and I would look for a matte finish to keep your wood the way you like.
Hello, A water-based polyurethane finish will work great for sealing wood without altering the color.
https://cutthewood.com/diy/how-to-seal-wood-without-changing-color/
Use matte finish water based polyurethane. No shine with matte. I use Minwax products
My vote is also for water based polyurethane, matte finish.Available at many diy stores.
Would definitely suggest to use water-based polyurethane in sealing this.
How To Seal Wood Without Changing Color
https://cutthewood.com/diy/how-to-seal-wood-without-changing-color/
Rustoleum - Zinsser make a product called Peel Stop. It's a clear binding sealer. I've never used it, but it sounds perfect for this!
Polyurethane is an excellent choice. It will stabilize the chippy layers. Use a duller sheen like matte if you don’t want shiny glossy results. I did the same on my thrifted chippy frame
A better option would be a water based polycrylic.
Poly comes in 3 sheens, Gloss, semi gloss and matt. I think the matt would work well. If you are using this indoors it will definitely protect the wood.
You could try paste wax, that doesn't really change the appearance much at all and buffs out to a nice satin sheen.
Any polyurethane I've used (water or oil based) has darkened the wood some. Gloss down to matte, doesn't matter, it will darken it a bit. You stated you did not want to darken it so I would do a little test spot on an area that wouldn't be obvious (bottom or back of frame?) so you can be sure you'll like the final result. Wait until it's fully dried before you decide!
Matte poly acrylic
clear wax to have matt finish
Clear Matt sealer.