Carving panel

I have done two chip carvings in jelutong and am trying to get the best possible almost mirror reflecting finish. This is practice for a chip carving that I have done on the floating panel of a box. The floating panel is jacaranda. I have been able to get excellent finishes in the past using sanding sealer Wattyl Scandinavian oil finishing with EEE ultra-shine. However this time I am not having any luck. Is this because I am working in the open carport and the weather has been cold? Do I have to leave these panels much longer to let each coat cure?
Charles Castle

G'day Charles - I would think it's got something to do with the Jelutong (rubber tree) and the oil. I wouldn't be using EEE over an oiled chip carving either as it will get into all the sharp points and other sharp angles of the carving and be a real problem to remove.

If you want a high shine on something like that you should definitely forgo the idea of oiling and use a surface coating: In my opinion Shellac, lacquer or (and I don't believe I'm going to say this) polyurethane, would all be a much better proposition. Not as easy or foolproof as oil but for what you want to achieve.... way better.

My choice would be for white shellac and weak coats. The lacquer and poly could kill some of the crispness of the carving. You may well be able to use the EEE over the shellac without causing a problem as you will then be working on a surface coating rather than an oil.

Cheers - Neil :U

Thanks Neil, I am trying that.
Charles Castle:)