Plywood is one of the most versatile and cost-effective building materials, and as a result, it is also one of the most popular. So many home DIY projects involve the use of this type of wood, and in order to give it a finished look, most turn to stain. I have put together a comprehensive…
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 NeedThere are several…
Staining wood has both aesthetic and finishing benefits for your woodworking project. For starters, staining helps preserve the wood so that it lasts longer. And, stain allows you to add color, texture, and even grain, improving the look and feel of the wood finish.However, some wood stains are thick and difficult to apply. Others are…
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 any oil…
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 Is…
While linseed oil might be the base, there are a variety of different kinds of this type of oil. Two common types are raw linseed oils and boiled linseed oils, with stand oil being a noted variant. I’ll tell you when to use each type of linseed oil, and what kinds of jobs they are…
In this article, I compared and contrast two film-forming wood finishes. Learn the biggest difference between pre-catalyzed lacquer and polyurethane, which is better, and when to use each one. What Is Pre-Catalyzed Lacquer? Pre-catalyzed lacquer, also called ‘pre-cat’, is a synthetic finish made from resin dissolved into various polymers and solvents. Pre-Cat Lacquer CharacteristicsIt is differentiated from…
Two substances created during petroleum processing are mineral spirits and mineral oil. Find out more about each of these products and the similarities and differences between them. After revealing the major differentiating factor, I’ll explain which is better. I’ll also give you the rundown on when to use mineral spirits, and when mineral oil is…
What are lacquer and stain, how are they the same, and how are they different? When should I use lacquer, and when is stain a better choice? What’s the major differentiating factor between the two — which is better? What Is Lacquer?The technical definition of lacquer is: a non-curing finish formulated with a resin and a…
In this article, learn what Danish oil and polyurethane are and how they compare to each other. Find out when to use each one, and which is better. What Is Danish Oil?Danish oil is used to darken, protect, and waterproof wood. It dries to a satin finish that is fairly durable, although it can be scuffed.…
In this article, I’ll explore the respective dry times of various wood sealers, including how long before they are dry to the touch, when you can apply another coat, and the length of time until the finish is fully hardened. Dry Times for Wood SealerThe length of time it takes wood sealer to dry is affected…
In this article, learn everything you need to know about mineral spirits and denatured alcohol. After giving you the rundown on these two solvents, I’ll delve into their similarities, differences, and applications. Keep reading to find out which is better. What Are Mineral Spirits?Mineral spirits are a petroleum-based solvent. Solvents are substances that have the power…
In this article, I compared and contrast two popular solvents; acetone, and denatured alcohol. After revealing their properties, I’ll explain when to use acetone, and when denatured alcohol is a better choice. Along with revealing the major differentiating factor, I’ll tell you which is better and why. What Is Acetone? Acetone is a colorless, liquid solvent. It…
Shellac and lacquer are common wood finishes that can be applied by any DIYer with the right technique. But how do you decide between them? In this article, I’ll explain the properties, history, and applications of each finish. Then, I’ll review the similarities and differences before revealing the major differentiating factor. Finally, you’ll learn when to…
In this article, learn more about varnish and polyurethane, including their similarities and differences. I’ll also share the major differentiating factor between varnish and polyurethane, when to use each kind of finish, and which is best overall. What Is Varnish?From a purely technical standpoint, a varnish is any finish that contains a resin and dries to…
