Cavediver wrote:That finish does look nice. I wish I could apply it to mine, but I have a unique bench: the entire thing is built from 4" strips of plywood, sandwiched together, edge grain exposed everywhereI was allowed to salvage material drops from the scrap bin at work. Since I had no real idea what I wanted in a bench, I figured I'd go through the extra trouble to minimize expense for this one, and worry about making a better one later.
Anyhow, the humidity comment was directed at the masonite top skin. Does the center raise up due to an overall size increase, or do the edges lift due to humidity imbalance?
One way to deal with it may be to cut a second, smaller masonite top for the summer (higher humidity). A slight gap between it and the apron edge might allow for some expansion.
The edges of the masonite lift due to the humidity imbalance. As summer comes on, I'll definitely keep in mind your suggestion regarding a smaller masonite top. Thanks!