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Best way to seal/paint end of MDF panel? **NEW PICS INSIDE!!**
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scotthh:
That's some fine looking routing. I'm almost embarrassed to post my pictures. I painted my MDF CP black, and the cut edge took the paint very differently than the face. It's not a big deal to me, because I will be putting t-molding on it. You need to prime it with glue or primer, I would agree with patrickl, Fozzy's solution looks relatively easy, inexpensive and quick.
TheAdMan:
Well your first mistake was using MDF to make such a nice piece of furniture, I know it's cheap but usually a pieces like that are made out of some kind of hardwood - ur pretty much stuck with painting it, as far as I know.
javeryh:
I used MDF because I don't have a jointer or a planer to make large panels out of hardwood - they are on the list though!  I knew about Fozzy's method but does that work for the edge as well as the flat top?  I guess I'll give it a shot tomorrow but I'd really like to be able to spray on a sealant or something - anyone have any recommendations?  I want to finish this thing this weekend...
TheAdMan:
Well if ur dead set on spraying without sanding the surface I would say to at least give the edges sanding with high grit, fill any holes/gaps, sand again, then spray at least two coats of sealer - there is MDF sealer on the market, you just need to find a place that carries it.

I'm not sure if this brand is available in US (this website is obviously in UK) but u might find something like it:
http://www.axminster.co.uk/pricing/INC/recno/15/cid/HVTLWMAEYKTJ7NU99OX8GB1MYU6LEXG7/product-Rustins-Rustins-MDF-Sealer-22684.htm

If you can't find MDF sealer, I'd just try using a few coats of primer. You should be able to tell what kind of finish you'll get by how the MDF is taking the primer.
mountain:
Drywall mud works great for this. Mix it well with a tiny bit of water so it is smooth like toothpaste. Use your finger to apply, forcing it in all of the voids. Let it dry, DO NOT SAND, it will ruin your nice edges*. Instead, use a wet rag. This will slowly disolve the mud and leave your wood intact.  ;)

*For the detailed areas, gently use a flat blade screwdriver to remove the mud from the 'valleys'. Doing this part while it is still a little wet will speed up the process.

Goos luck!

Note: I am leaving for vacation early tomorrow morning and will not be able to reply. Have fun!  :cheers:
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