Wood hardener to fortify pine

 Can I apply wood hardener (such as Minwax) to soft (pine, I think)
screen bead molding and then paint it? I have plain, flat kitchen
cabinet doors and I am planning to add "picture frame" molding to each
drawer and cabinet door using screen bead molding. The stuff is cheap
($1.79 for 8 feet), but seems pretty soft and prone to dings. Will wood
hardener make it more durable?

Thanks,
Karen

 
I don't know what is in the "wood hardener," but you could use a clear
laminating epoxy such as that used by boatbuilders.  The epoxy will cure into a
hard finish, but on soft wood you may need 2 coats, since the first one will be
absorbed quickly.  I also don't know the price of the Minwax stuff, but
laminating epoxy is relatively expensive (on the order of $20-35/qt, depending
on brand).  OTOH, you will only need a few ounces for molding, and you can buy
it by the pint (or less).

Some common brand names are System 3, West System, Mas, and Raka.

 
I have good experience with stuff from these guys, they advertise
in Fine Homebuilding...

http://www.abatron.com/home002.htm

-Mike