You don't want to use wax as an only finish. It just doesn't hold up to the
use (I assume it's to be actually used as opposed to just a display) even
with a good hard carnauba wax job.

Use the lacquer or a polyurethane but I wouldn't think you would want to
have a heavy feeling to it as you would with many coats. Just 5 or 6 thin
even coats of good quality spray lacquer (with sanding between) and then a
light buffing would wear very well and look great.

- Andrew


"Grandpa" jsdebooATcomcast.net wrote in message
...
I'm expecting to turn a set of chessmen (pretty aggressive first project
in many years on a lathe) of probably Juniper and probably Maple, pine
or another light colored wood. I'm trying to figure out what would be a
good finish for the set. I'm considered wax as I think I can do a lot
of it while the pieces are still on the lathe but am unsure of how often
I may have to rewax it - never used wax on wood before. Any comments on
using wax for a chess set?


I've also considered lacquer or one of its derivitives or similar
products and dipping the pieces several times to build up a nice thick
finish & shine. Did this many years ago with a gearshift knob(60's,
what else?). I know how it'll turn out with this but really am curious
about using wax. FWIW, the chess board will be etched glass set in a
nice wooden box yet to be made.