How to finish Acacia panel for desktop?

[CJay96]

I’m looking to grab the following panel to use as a desktop 

https://www.bunnings.com.au/specrite-2400-x-900-x-33mm-brown-acacia-multi-use-timber-panel_p0472677

I’m looking to ideally have the desk between 1800-2000 wide, and reducing the depth to 750mm.

What would I need to do for the cut edges to seal/protect it and if possible, have the finish looking as close to original as possible.

I’m also wondering, if the difference in finish would stand out, am I better off taking some off both sides to reduce the width to match them?

[EricL]

Hello @CJay96 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your desk panel.

I propose looking at the Intergrain 250ml Redwood NaturalStain Timber Stain, this stain also comes in Cedar, Jarrah and Merbau. I recommend visiting your local store and looking at the stain sample board in the paint department and comparing it to the finish of the Specrite Acacia. Once you find a close copy of the colour you are after it should be enough to disguise the cut portion of the benchtop.

It will be very difficult to find an exact match; the best I can suggest would be to get a similar shade that the panel currently has. You'll then need to use a compatible sealer to protect the cut section.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[CJay96]

Thanks Eric! Do you also think it is logical to make cuts on each so that they’ll both match?

Also, if I arrange for my local store to make the cuts, the next steps would be to sand, coat and then seal?

[EricL]

Hello @CJay96 

I'm sorry but the shop saws don't do precision cuts on timber panels. Cuts on large panels are only done for ease of transport. I propose cutting the panel at home for a precise cut.

I don't think its necessary to cut both sides as the cut section will only be ever seen on one side and never at the same time as the other side of the panel. The sand, coat and seal steps you've mentioned are the correct steps to take.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric

[CJay96]

Hi Eric,

I’ve now decided to use https://www.bunnings.com.au/specrite-2400-x-900-x-33mm-timber-multi-use-pine-panel_p0419614 instead.

Just confirming steps would be the same? Also should I sand the whole desk before oiling?

[MitchellMc]

Yes, the steps would be the same @CJay96. If you are planning on coating the whole desk, then it would be best to sand it all beforehand.

Mitchell