Re: polyurethane finish on zebrano, ...or an ode to plastic wood

[tayo de boer <dbi@golden.net>]

At 11:36 AM 21/04/98 -0500, you wrote:
>>Is there any way to remove it?
>
>I think there's no truly practical way. I wouldn't try it unless it
was
>almost a complete loss to begin with. The ultra-smooth appearance of
the
>

   The wood decals described was very popular after market item at the
Frankfurt fairs in the early 90's. The finish is comprised of a two part
polyester coating that is applied in a series of applications according
to the "depth" of lustre desired. It is then polished.
Typically the veneer is applied to an aluminum substrate for durability
of the entire structure since the polyester must endure numerous
temperature cycles.  Polyester coatings - not to be confused with
polyurethane - have been very popular in Europe for more than a decade
but rarely over true veneers. This finish is also found on expensive
pianos.
  Once cracked or crazed, it's nearly impossible to repair. Polyester
fillers are available which must then be buffed, and buffed...till it
doesn't matter.  Once applied it is impossible to remove.

tayo de boer