Things You'll Need:
- Drop cloth
- Rags
- Brushes
- Sandpaper
- Cotton swabs
- Brush cleaning container
- Paint thinner or mineral spirits
- Rubber gloves
- Old clothes
- Tack rag
-
Step 1
Select the stain color to finish your woodworking project. Keep in mind the porosity of the wood and the length of time the stain will remain on the wood before wiping the excess stain with a lint free rag.
-
Step 2
Choose the best protective finish for your project. Use a hand rubbed finish for an item that won't receive much wear, but brush or spray the wood for a hard surface to withstand constant use.
-
Step 3
Prepare the area with a heavy drop cloth. Use rubber gloves to protect your hands and wear old clothing.
-
Step 4
Test the stain's color in an inconspicuous place when you finish a woodworking project, or use an extra piece of wood. Stain all of the exposed surfaces of your project, and allow the stain to dry thoroughly.
-
Step 5
Brush on the protective finish at a 45-degree angle, and run your brush the full length of the area using a light stroke to get out the air bubbles. Wipe on the protective coating for a hand rubbed finish.
-
Step 6
Allow plenty of drying time and sand the surface lightly before you put another coat of protective finish on the wood. Remove the sand dust completely with a tack rag.
-
Step 7
Use a stain and protective coating all in one can to save time and effort.
