finish

How To Age Wood

Aged wood

This article details multiple methods for giving new, ‘green’ wood an aged look. It will give you step by step instructions on how to make ‘rusty vinegar’, and the right techniques for using it to achieve an aged, weathered look. You’ll learn tips and tricks on weathering pine, and how to give wood an aged …

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How To Fix a Bad Stain Job

Wood with a bad stain job

A bad stain job can turn a beautiful piece of wood into an eyesore. Don’t despair — there are many ways to fix a bad stain job, whether the stain is too light, too dark, streaky, blotchy, or simply the wrong color. In this article, learn why stain jobs go bad, and how to fix …

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How To Make Colored Wood Stain

Minwax Water Based Wood Stain

In this article, I’ll teach you all about making colored wood stain. It includes step-by-step instructions on how to color stains of different bases, as well as some tips for success.  Any hardware store that sells stain can tint it for you, but the selection of colors to choose from is usually very limited. When …

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How Much Stain Do I Need?

Person with gloved hands opening a can of gel stain

This article clearly describes the formula for calculating how much stain you need to complete a given project. After describing different factors that might alter the amount of stain you need, it gives examples of common projects and the average amount of stain needed for each.  Factors That Affect How Much Stain You Need There …

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How Much Stain Do I Need For Hardwood Floors?

Woman applying wood stain on her hardwood floors

This article teaches you how to calculate how much stain you need for your hardwood floors. It details the methods used to determine the square footage of the area to be stained, then takes you through how to interpret manufacturer’s estimates about how much their products cover. It also details some of the unique considerations …

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How Much Polyurethane Do I Need?

Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane cans

This article defines polyurethane and shares some of its common uses. It tells you how to interpret manufacturer’s coverage estimates and how to plan for multiple coats of polyurethane. By the end, you’ll feel confident in estimating how much polyurethane you need for your next wood finishing project.  What Is Polyurethane? Polyurethane, called ‘poly’ for …

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Mineral Oil vs Tung Oil

Wood with a tung oil finish

Learn about mineral oil, tung oil, how they are similar, and what the important differences are between the two. Then, find out the major differentiating factor, when to use each type of oil, and which is better.  What Is Mineral Oil? Mineral oil is any oil that originates from a non-vegetable source, usually as a …

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How Many Coats Of Wipe-On Poly?

Gloved hands applying Wipe-on Poly

In this article, find out what wipe-on poly is, how it compares to traditional polyurethane, and how many coats to apply for your next project. I’ll also cover some tips and tricks for working with wipe-on poly and how to make your own.  What Is Wipe-On Poly?  Poly is short for polyurethane, a clear, tintable …

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Lacquer Thinner vs Denatured Alcohol

Man pouring lacquer thinner on a paper cup

In this article, learn about lacquer thinner and denatured alcohol. After defining each substance I’ll share the similarities, differences and major differentiating factor. Then, I’ll tell you when to use them and which is better.  What Is Lacquer Thinner? Lacquer thinner is an imprecise term applied to any amalgamation of strong solvents used to dissolve …

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Mineral Oil vs Linseed Oil

Paint thinner can, Mineral Spirit can, and wood stain products

In this article, I’ll take you through the uses and characteristics of linseed oil and mineral oil. After comparing and contrasting, I’ll reveal the major differentiating factor between these two substances. Then, I’ll discuss when to use mineral oil, when to use linseed oil, and which is better.  What Is Mineral Oil? Mineral oil is …

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How Long to Wait Between Stain and Polyurethane

Minwax Wood Stain

In this article, you will learn about stain and poly. I’ll define each product, and tell you how long to wait after applying stain to follow with a coat of poly. Then, I’ll explain the factors that affect the dry time of stain, before reviewing how to mix and match water and oil-based products.  What …

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