Since the weather is too nice to sit inside & paint, I usually use the summer months to clean & partially assemble figures, restock supplies, do a little research, stuff like that. I recently bought some unfinished wood pieces from a local hobby store that might make pretty nice bases. Staining them isn't a problem but does anyone out there know how to get that hard, glossy finish (or a reasonable facsimile thereof) like the fancy bases sold by dealers or at shows? Thanks in advance.

Mike

Hi

Well, you could use some sort of polyurethane or other varnish.
I stain bases then use some old Microscale Flat varnish I have. It doesn't dry flat, but semi-gloss, and that looks good to me.
The last option is to get some wood polish, and polish rather than overcoat. More work, but the wood will look really nice...

Andy

There are several products that can be used. I suggest going to the library and checking out a book on wood finishes, and going to Lowes/Home Depot and talking to the paint guy. There are some modern high gloss finishes that are pretty easy to apply. Preparing the wood by sanding until it has a natural gloss finish will make your final finish look best. and if you use pourous wood like oak or walnut, you can get a filler for all those little holes.
I use to finish my own bases, but realized the amount of time involved took away from painting, so not worth the time or $ savings to me.
Good luck on your bases.
Pete

Thanks Andy & Pete for the input. Since I won't be painting til late August when the kids are back in school, I'll have time to try these ideas.