Can I apply an oil based varnish directly on dyed wood (cherry)?

Question

I have applied a water based dye on cherry plywood. Will varnish (oil based Zinisser-Bull's Eye) be compatible as a finishing sealer with a water based dye?

Or applying 2lb. shellac cut as sealer coat over dye and then varnish will be a good idea?

Please advise.....

Answer 1

Use a water based sealer with water base stain, this will avoid cracking and pealing. There are many waterproof sealers for furniture on the market.  The best is urathayne. It's easy to use and you can get it in several finishes, gloss, semi-gloss or flat. It's give a great finish to any piece of furniture. Any hardware store carries it. Happy sealing.

Answer 2

Yes, you can apply a oil based product over a water based product. Just not the other way around. Min-wax makes a very good water based polyurethane,in satin/semi gloss or gloss. It dries very hard and leaves a fantastic look to it. Very simple. I don't really like shellac because it turns yellow with age. But your Zinisser is good to use if that is what you have. Oil over water= fine. Water over oil= no way! Byee

Answer 3

The shellac is always a good idea and gives you another chance to sand before the varnish

Answer 4

Yes, it is compatible...

Here is a trick to make a smoother finish.  Thin your first coat of varnish with paint thinner (ratio: 10(varnish) to 1(paint thinner).  Use a high density foam brush. and use 2 top coats after that.