I'm building a desk using maple plywood for the desktop and solid maple for the other parts. My biggest concern is how to protect it from my cats' claws when they inevitably jump on it. I'm considering using a polyurethane finish, but I'm not a fan of that shiny plastic look. Any suggestions on a finish that would provide good protection but still have a more natural appearance?
3 Answers
If you're worried about cats, you might want to try a matte polyurethane. It can provide the protection you need while still keeping a natural look without the gloss.
For a super tough finish, consider either a 2K poly or conversion varnish. They require a bit more setup for spraying, but they’re incredibly durable. Just a heads up, neither of those options will give you that plastic look typical of cheaper poly from the big stores!
I’d recommend checking out General Finishes Arm-R-Seal. It offers great durability and doesn't look overly plastic. Plus, it comes in various sheens, so you can choose one that suits your aesthetic.
I was curious about GF High Performance; do you think Danish oil would be good to use underneath that?