how to apply varathane stain and polyurethane in one

[3] X Research source Sand the surface of your table thoroughly so it is smooth and uniform. Apply the stain to the wood liberally with a sponge or soft cloth. Apply the Varathane in a strip along one part of the wood. See the best ways to use either method, below. Learning how to apply polyurethane to stained wood can enhance the appearance of the stain while protecting the … Water-based polyurethanes don't match well with oil-based stains, so if you're applying over stain you'll want to "rough up" the stained surface slightly before applying your water-based polyurethane, using some synthetic steel wool. The basic application technique for water-based poly is similar to that for oil-based. Since oil and water don't mix, this will help prevent the polyurethane from beading on the surface, like water on a freshly waxed car. They're also a bit thicker and contain more solids, requiring two or three coats where water-based poly may need three or four. How to Varathane a Table. You can also use a rag moistened with mineral spirits (for an oil-based poly) or cheesecloth moistened with denatured alcohol (for a water-based poly). Removal of all excess material is essential to ensure proper dry time and proper adhesion to the wood. Regardless of the type you use, if your project will see a lot of wear and tear, few finishes are as appropriate as polyurethane for the protective topcoats. Warning: Skip this step and the top can twist, cup or warp. Applying polyurethane to new stairs can be tricky if you have to use the stairs while the finish is drying, but you can get around this by coating only every other step at one time. [1] Apply the finish in a clean, well-ventilated area. It's best to apply polyurethane to flat (as in level) surfaces so the finish can self-level and is less likely to drip. To prevent bubbles in the finish, do not over-brush, shake, or apply with a roller. It can also be used over polyurethane finishes, so you can change the color of your finished wood, without removing the existing finish. Work with the grain, and avoid applying too much polyurethane to avoid raising the grain. Fumes may persist for some time after the final coat dries. Apply an even coat of stain to your workpiece, making long brushstrokes and overlapping the edges for full coverage. Applying Polyurethane to Hardwood Floors: Step by Step. Water-based poly has a milky white look when it goes on but turns clear as it dries. PolyShades® is a combination wood stain and polyurethane finish, allowing you to get both color and protection in one easy step. Some woodworkers like to use spray poly for a thin topcoat over base coats of conventional polyurethane, producing a final smooth coat without brush strokes. Just don't finish your work outdoors, where you can't control dust, bugs, and other flying finish-ruiners. Chris is a freelance writer who specializes in woodworking, designs his own projects, and is experienced in commercial carpentry. For open-grain woods (like oak, ash, or walnut), you can apply a wood grain filler before the polyurethane, to create an ultra-smooth finished surface. When you’ve added enough coats, use automotive polish to bring out its shine. Plan on at least three coats of water-based poly on lightly used projects and at least four coats on floors and any pieces that need maximum protection. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Varathane-a-Table-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Varathane-a-Table-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bb\/Varathane-a-Table-Step-1.jpg\/aid8987406-v4-728px-Varathane-a-Table-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"