Have given it three coats,and rubbed down between but want to have a smooth finish.I could give it a quick rub with fine sandpaper,any alternative?

OK, when I've done this, I've rubbed down between coats with FINE wire wool, dusted it to remove bits etc, then the last coat has been hand waxed, (proper furniture wax, left to set, then buffed up by hand.)

You can also use, believe it or not, something like T-cut, or another cutting compound to produce a deep gloss. I did it like that on a coffee table, with an inlaid chessboard, I made as a student, (it was better than going to lectures:D )

Alcazar

Okay,i'll give it a try.
I have a chest that has a really high polish finish and i'm trying to replicate that.

Okay,i'll give it a try.
I have a chest that has a really high polish finish and i'm trying to replicate that.
nice.. my misses just waxes her legs ...:D

Alcazar,the only thing with t-cut is it left a white residue in the grain.

Alcazar,the only thing with t-cut is it left a white residue in the grain.
Grain? After three coats of PU?

Seriously, you're supposed to be falttening any surface irregularities with it to make the shine. If you can still feel the grain, you need more coats of PU.

IIRC, the white residue can be removed wuith a cloth and some white spirit?

Alcazar

Okay,thanks.
I was only a shelf and i've done it now.
The tin recommends only 2 coats,oak does have deep grain in parts.
Apart from the white residue t-cut works a treat,fantastic finish.

wet it, sand it, wet it, sand it, wet it, sand it, wet it, sand it, wet it, sand it, wet it, sand it, wet it, sand it, etc then use 1 coat of whatever.
it will lift the grain and you wont have to fill it
thats what i do on gun stocks anyway...then oil finish :)

doh , just realised it said veneer , lol