How to Apply Clear Wood Finish
While wood stains and paints may hide the natural grain of wood, clear finishes allow the grain to be displayed. Because there are no pigments used in clear finishes, mistakes in the application are much less noticeable. Using some simple supplies and techniques, you can easily apply a clear finish to any wooden item, including house trim, toys and furniture. A clear finish will protect your wooden items from everyday wear and tear, ensuring they last for many years.
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Things You'll Need
- Sanding block or sponge,100-grit
- Sanding block or sponge, 240- to 280-grit
- Clean rags
- Paintbrush
- Sanding sealer
- Tack cloth
- Varnish
Instructions
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Sand your wooden item lightly using a 100-grit sanding sponge or block and following the direction of the grain. Concentrate on any rough spots in the wood, such as knots or uneven grains. Sanding the wood will ensure an even surface for your finish.
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2
Brush the sanded wood using a clean, dry paintbrush to help remove sanding dust. Then, wipe the wood using a slightly damp rag to remove any remaining dust. Be careful not to saturate the wood with water. Allow the wood to dry completely.
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3
Coat the wood piece with sanding sealer, using long, even strokes. Work as fast as you can, as the sealer dries quickly and can possibly leave brush marks. Be careful to evenly coat the wood. Allow the sealer to dry overnight.
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Sand the surface of the wood using your extra fine, 240- to 280-grit sanding block or sponge. Use even and light strokes, following the grain of the wood. Sand the surface until the finish is smooth to the touch and takes on a flat, frosted appearance.
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Brush the wood using a clean, dry paintbrush to help remove any dust. Then, wipe the remainder of dust from the wood using a tack cloth.
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Coat the wood piece with varnish, using long, even strokes. Allow the varnish to dry completely before touching the surface of the wood.
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Tips & Warnings
Hold your paintbrush using a light touch. This will help you to apply the sealer and varnish evenly.
One coat of varnish should be all that is needed for items, such as wooden house trim, that are not expected to receive much abuse. Other items, such as wooden chairs, may need another coat.
Before applying the second coat, prepare the wooden surface by lightly sanding it, then brushing the dust away.
If desired, you can stain your wooden item with a colored stain before applying the clear finish. Follow the instructions for the product you have purchased, and make sure it is compatible with the clear finish you will be using. Water-based stains can be used under either water-based or oil-based clear finishes. Oil-based stains, however, can only be used under oil-based clear finishes.
Sand your item outdoors, if possible, to prevent sanding dust from gathering in your home. Avoid sweeping the sanding dust, as this will only stir it through the air.
References
- Photo Credit wood image by Zbigniew Nowak from Fotolia.com
