Finish Panels before or after assembly?

[debk]

Curious how people have done this.

My finish process consists of applying transtint dye, letting dry followed by 6 coats of Tung oil then two layers of poly.  A long process takes about a week since Tung oil needs to dry ~24 hrs between coats.

I am thinking it may be easier to finish all the exposed surfaces first and then assemble.  Any suggestions

Debra

[Paul Birkeland]

I would not risk getting the oil on the gluing surfaces. 

[oguinn]

I finished after the glue up.

[robertod]

Yes I agree, assemble then finish.  I think it is easier.

[Doc B.]

We are in the midst of an edit of a new video covering this exact subject. Hope to have it up on a new youtube channel soon.

Short answer - glue it up first, then apply finishes.