1. Before you get started, make sure your environment for finishing
is warm (minimum 50 degrees or warmer), dry, dust free and well
ventilated. Note: The warmer the temperature the quicker the dry
time.
2. Remove knobs or handles before starting.
3. Sand lightly to remove any surface scratches. Use 150 – 220 grit
sand paper. (Fine/X-fine sanding sponge works well.) Don’t use finer
than 220 grit sandpaper. (Finer than 220 grit sandpaper will polish
the wood and cause it not accept stain well.)
4. Remove any dust with tack cloth.
5. If your project is pine or another similar type of soft wood, it
is highly recommended that you use a stain conditioner. This helps
soft woods absorb stain evenly. (Follow directions on can.)
6. Stir stain well before and during use. It is okay to shake stain,
but be sure to stir it as well.
7. Wipe on stain with a small rag, foam brush or staining sponge.
Wiping with direction of grain.
8. Wipe off excess stain with a clean cotton rag. Wiping off with
the direction of the grain.
9. Allow stain to dry the recommended time before top coating (see
back to stain can).
10. Stir polyurethane before and during use. Shaking Old Dads
Polyurethane is okay. Some polyurethanes will bubble when shaken
11. Apply polyurethane with a small clean cotton rag. Wipe on
polyurethane with the direction of the grain, especially on big flat
areas.
12. After applying first coat of polyurethane allow 4 – 6 hours to
dry (depending on temperature and humidity) then apply second coat
in the same manner as the first.
13. Allow to dry overnight then sand with 320 to 600 grit sandpaper,
0000 steel wool or a worn fine/x-fine sanding sponge. Sand with the
direction of the grain. The purpose for sanding between coats is to
smooth out the finish. Be careful not to sand through the finish.
14. Remove any dust with tack cloth.
15. Apply final coat of polyurethane. Let dry 24 hours. Your
furniture is now completely finished and ready to use. However, if
you desire a thicker finish or a higher luster simply apply
additional coats following steps 10 and 11 between each coat.
This information has been given as a guide to help you finish your
project. It is not all inclusive and does not cover every possible
variable in the finishing process.
Please read back of cans for finishing tips and precautions.
