Dear Heartwood readers,

Thanks to a heads up from Christian, an astute reader, I have learned that Bartley’s finishes are currently out of production due to the manufacturer, the Lawrence McFadden Company, having completely shut down operations as of January 4, 2010. Because I posted about how much I like their gel varnish, I wanted to get this new information posted as soon as possible so readers will not be mislead. I most recently purchased this product this past Fall.

Bartley’s site has an announcement. Finishing expert Michael Dresdner has further information on his site. He also notes that the Rockler-labeled product that he endorsed was the same finish.

It appears that this is a move to the IR and not a career-ending injury for Bartley’s finishes, but we’ll have to wait and see.

I know of two other gel varnishes that are available, General Finishes Gel Topcoat and Old Masters Gel Varnish, but I have not used them and so cannot offer any assessment.

I am sorry if any readers were mislead or inconvenienced by the previous posts. Hopefully, Bartley’s finishing products, especially the clear gel varnish with the same formulation, will be available again soon. Thanks for reading and happy woodworking.

Rob