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Strong flexible clear coat for bamboo

I am looking to put a strong, long lasting clear coat finish on bamboo poles that will be stressed as walking sticks. They will also be used in temps well below freezing. I have tried a few urethane spray cans but they seems to flake off. I am open to all suggestions, I was picturing a thick clear dip that would really coat the surface but stay flexible.

Thanks.

Adam Dentz
hobbyist - North Bend, Washington, USA
October 1, 2009

October 29, 2009

Because of Bamboo's smooth outer layer, oil based urethanes won't stick well, but you could try a catalyzed lacquer or conversion varnish like Duravar. These will stick better to the Bamboo. The only problem is that none of this are extremely flexible. Pre-Cat lacquer can be found in aerosols, and you might get a vinyl sanding sealer as well which is recommended under the catalyzed lacquers.....

www.pondcovepaint.com/content/page/catalog_product/id/409/E_Z_Vinyl_Sealer.html

www.pondcovepaint.com/content/page/catalog_product/id/144/Pre_Catalyzed_Clears_Sealer.html

Greg Scholl
- Middlebury, Vermont

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