Sanding Sealer Recommendation, Zinser, General Finishes, Other?

[Neal W]

I'm getting ready to make a solid walnut top for a bedroom cabinet project and was wondering if it was "worth it" or useful to use a sanding sealer.  And if so, what sanding sealer might be recommended.  I have been trying to do some research on this and am curious.

The zinser product seems like it is good.  Dries in a hurry.  But  I do have some concerns about how it might change the color of the wood.

I have developed an affinity to some of General Finishes other products, and was curious if anyone has had any experience with their water based sanding sealer (which is also appealing).

Thanks,

 

[waho6o9]

Good idea, if you use de-waxed sanding sealer your top finish will adhere better. 

I use zinsser de-waxed shellac as a wash coat before glue up to prevent glue spot appearances afterwards.

I think it's worth it.

GF has some great products as well but I haven't used their sanding sealer. 

Practice on some scraps and you might like the results.

 

[Bob Wolfe]

I have used both General Finishes and Benny Moore fillers. See if you can find a small squeeze or a putty spreader from an autobody supplier. The putty spreaders are stiffer and can force the filler into the grain a bit better. The last time, and only time,  I finished walnut I used mostly Benjamin Moor and thinned it a bit and tinted it darker. You may have to fill it more than once if you want a glass flat finish.
BW

 

[Pnw painter]

Before you apply a sanding sealer you’ll want to check to ensure that it’s compatible with whatever finish you plan on using. If you plan on applying a stain you might have to thin the sealer.

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