Balsa Question

[Big Swimbait]

Will Thompson's Water Seal work on Balsa? The reason I ask is I picked up 4 gallons and two, 3 ft Balsa 1.25" dowel rods at a liquidator for $10.00.  

[MN Fisher]

From a modelers perspective (yes, I do scale modeling as well as fishing), Thompson's is one of the alternate 'go-to' sealers if you don't want to use varnish or shellac.

 

So yes, it does work, and is a recommended option.

[Big Swimbait]

2 minutes ago, MN Fisher said:

From a modelers perspective (yes, I do scale modeling as well as fishing), Thompson's is one of the alternate 'go-to' sealers if you don't want to use varnish or shellac.

 

So yes, it does work, and is a recommended option.

Thanks for the quick response!

[BobP]

Most experienced builders would say yeah, but there are better options including a coat of epoxy, a couple of coats of runny superglue, etc.  As well as waterproofing the balsa it’s a good idea to add strength and hardness to the wood because crankbaits live in a hostile environment.