Stain - Polyurethane

1. Preparation

Before the stain even touches the wood, you need to open up the grain and smooth out imperfections.

• Sandpaper (Progression):  You’ll need a sequence (typically 120, 150, and 220 grit). Sanding too fine (above 220) can actually burnish the wood and prevent stain from soaking in.

• Removing Sawdust: Use the air hose to thoroughly clear the sawdust off your project.

2.  Application 

• Choose your finish:  Clear Polyurethane is great for protection and getting a more natural clear coat.  Stain is for changing the appearance of the wood.  (Medium Walnut)

• Apply the stain:  

  1. Look for good coverage.  (No dry spots)

  2. Wipe into the material.  Going over the surface a couple of times to push the finish deeper into the material.

• Wipe down excess:  

  1. Wipe excess material with the grain.  (Going with the grain will help hide any lines that are missed.)

  2. Looking to have a good clean surface.

3. Safety & Cleanup

• Ventilation: The room we are finishing in is ventilated so fumes will not accumulate.

• Clean up: 

  1. Rags should be put into covered red container.  (Rags left out can spontaneously combust.)

  2. Your project should be placed on small sticks and moved to a secure location.