Are natural maple cabinets just maple with a clear coat, like a lacquer?
Answer Sam, Today nearly all “natural” maple furnishings are just that – hard or soft maple with a clear finish. In years past a so-called maple finish was brownish orange stain, to mimic 200-year old antique maple pieces that had developed extreme patina. Many lacquers and water-borne clear finishes resist darkening and yellowing, but when exposed to sunlight, will eventually succumb, albeit gradually. Oil finishes (poly, varnish) tend to darken or yellow more rapidly. So you will need to wait for the finish to darken. Of course during that time the older finish will darken more; it’s kinda like a donkey chasing a carrot on a stick. But, given time the two will likely approach a satisfactory equilibrium. You can sped up,the aging of the newer finish by exposing it to sunlight or UV light (dangerous), but go easy with this tack- it may get out of hand.
