CrystaLac, Clear Amber Toned Sanding Sealer (Clear Amber Toned, 32oz Quart)

This stuff is great! It added that yellow / amber tint that set my guitar build apart from being just a plain Tru oil finish. Not only did it create a great base for the coatings of Tru oil, it is easily managed as long as you do not create bubbles. Do not stir it fast, and DO NOT shake it.

This is my go-to sanding sealer under shellac, polyurethane, solvent based lacquer and even oil based finishes. Many people will seal with their topcoat or even apply a stain directly to bare wood. You can have success with those methods, but they aren't reliable. CrystaLac sanding sealer is easy to apply evenly, has a long working time, and doesn't tack-up as fast as some other water-based sealers I've tried. This makes it easy to apply even the first coat on fairly thirsty wood very evenly. I apply with a foam brush in small sections then chase with a rag to rub in any excess. The first coat raises the grain and also hardens the raised grain making it easier to remove than the water wipe-down method. Smooth the surface with a light sand (I use a 320 grit sponge or the equivalent scouring pad ) between coats. Subsequent coats can be applied very thin and buffed in with a rag...once they stop soaking into the wood and sitting on the surface, I'm done and ready for a subsequent coats of whatever finish I'm using. You'll find those subsequent coats are easier to spread evenly on the sealer. Sprayed finishes go on nice and even. You can also apply your stain over a coat or two of the sealer and it will go on much more evenly, especially on soft woods with differential grain porousness (pine, redwood, etc.) or light color. You can even tint your second or third coat with dye and get a very even stain that way. The only complaint you may have with this sealer is it's tendency to get a bit foamy during application. Not a big deal, wipe the foam away with a clean rag as you work. You can almost ignore the foam on the first coat because it mostly vanishes, but on subsequent coats, just wipe it off. It's expensive, but delivers a great looking result, and you use a lot less topcoat or color coats on a properly sealed surface. It also works well under a water-based, oil based or even epoxy grain filler.

The CrystaLac Clear Amber Toned Sanding Sealer (32oz) is a must-have for woodworkers and luthiers looking for a high-quality sealer that enhances the natural beauty of the wood while providing excellent protection. The amber tone gives a beautiful warmth and depth to the wood grain, making it ideal for vintage or aged finishes. It goes on smoothly and dries quickly, providing a solid foundation for your topcoats. The easy-to-sand formula ensures you get a smooth, even finish, and the sealer’s clarity ensures that the wood's natural characteristics still shine through. Whether you're working on a guitar, furniture, or any other wood project, this sealer helps create a professional-level finish that’s easy to work with and looks fantastic. Pros: Amber tone enhances wood grain and adds warmth Quick drying and easy to sand Great for guitars and other fine wood projects High-quality protection for topcoats Clear and smooth finish without cloudiness Cons: Strong odor – Make sure to apply in a well-ventilated space or with a mask. Final Verdict: If you're looking to achieve a beautiful, warm finish on wood while getting excellent sanding and topcoat adhesion, CrystaLac Clear Amber Toned Sanding Sealer is the way to go. It's easy to use, dries quickly, and offers a professional finish. Highly recommended for anyone looking to enhance their woodworking projects.

I was concerned with the "amber tone" since I was working with dyed maple. As some may already know, amber tones can destroy a vivid blue color. Surprisingly, this stuff is perfect. Pops grain like oil based products yet still maintains an acceptable color for dyed woods. I like it a lot

Hard to use unless the surface is flat - not great for curved surfaces

I use this for sealing solid body guitar bodies before painting. Actually has a really high build after a few coats and dries quickly. Highly recommended.

Very easy to apply. Place 2 coats first then sand lightly with 320 grit sandpaper. Repeat again and you are all set

I like the Color this product gives to wood

No sanding sealing recognized. No amber colour at all. Had to return it