Shopsmith Forums

Bob:

For a project of this type, I'm not sure you need food dyes to ensure a non-toxic finish. Most finishes are non-toxic after they cure.

With that out of the way, Wood Magazine had plans for a set of building blocks some time ago in which they suggested using acrylic craft paint mixed with water based polyurathane to create a bright and, if desired, semi-transparent finish. The depth of colour and transparency depend on how much paint is used. I tried it and it worked quite well. I would have attached a picture but the file is too large and I'm not sure how to resize it.

Some aniline dyes are also bright and covered with shellac might do the trick. I have used this finish on toy trucks.

Good Luck

John

I can knot agree that all food dye is non-toxic: My daughter is highly allergic to many of them. You might be surprised what some of them are made of.

Tim:

You raise a good point that most of us never think of. Some food dyes are a problem for some people.

I guess it comes down to a personal choice as to how to colour the pieces. Then a film finish can be applied and allowed to cure for at leat 30 days at which time it is usually safe.

Shellac is probably the safest bet but once the finish is bit into, or worn off, the choice of colouring may come into play.

John