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Step 9Applying Finish
I decided not to stain the case, worried that the LEDs wouldn't sine through as well. I probably could have used a light stain of some sort, or brighter LEDs, but in the end decided to just go with a glossy finish. I used Minwax Polycrylic, my fave water-based finish.
First unscrew the bottom plate. If you paint the case with the plate attached, you risk gluing it to the case, without any electronics installed yet!
The first layer of finish should be very thin. The acrylic finish soaks right in and basically prepares the wood to accept additional coats of finish. Don't bother applying finish behind where the metal plates will go. After about two or three hours the finish is dry enough to be sanded. Use 220 or 320 grit sand paper, sanding until the case is smooth again. Again, wipe with a lint-free cloth.
The second layer of finish can go on a bit thicker, and will end up looking a little glossy once it dries. It will also feel a little rough. Once dry, sand with 320 grit sandpaper and wipe clean.
By the third coat you'll start to see a much nicer looking finish. In fact, you may be able to stop here. I only applied three coats to the sides. If you decide to add a fourth layer, sand again with 320 sandpaper and wipe clean.
The fourth coat will probably be all that you need. Once it dries you're done - don't sand it!
First unscrew the bottom plate. If you paint the case with the plate attached, you risk gluing it to the case, without any electronics installed yet!
The first layer of finish should be very thin. The acrylic finish soaks right in and basically prepares the wood to accept additional coats of finish. Don't bother applying finish behind where the metal plates will go. After about two or three hours the finish is dry enough to be sanded. Use 220 or 320 grit sand paper, sanding until the case is smooth again. Again, wipe with a lint-free cloth.
The second layer of finish can go on a bit thicker, and will end up looking a little glossy once it dries. It will also feel a little rough. Once dry, sand with 320 grit sandpaper and wipe clean.
By the third coat you'll start to see a much nicer looking finish. In fact, you may be able to stop here. I only applied three coats to the sides. If you decide to add a fourth layer, sand again with 320 sandpaper and wipe clean.
The fourth coat will probably be all that you need. Once it dries you're done - don't sand it!
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