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…
Polyurethane that is too thick won’t spread well. It also takes a long time to cure and leaves behind unsightly bubbles and wrinkles. I’ll explain when you should thin polyurethane, and when it’s better to leave it as is. You’ll also learn what can be used to thin polyurethane, and get step by step instructions…
Polyurethane is a layered finish that is applied in multiple coats. Sanding between coats promotes adhesion and a smooth finish. In this article, learn how to sand polyurethane between coats, how to prepare wood to receive polyurethane through sanding, and whether or not to sand your final coat of poly. Sanding Wood to Prepare for PolyurethaneSanding…
Finishes are used to seal, protect, and beautify wood. Two popular finishes are shellac and varnish. In this article, I’ll review the qualities and properties of both shellac and varnish. I’ll also explain the similarities, differences, and the major distinguishing factor between these finishes. Finally, I’ll tell you when to use shellac, when to use…
There are three different methods for removing varnish from wood: using sandpaper, a heat gun, or varnish stripper. It will also cover how to tell if wood was finished with lacquer, varnish, or shellac. Removing Varnish From Wood With Varnish StripperUsing varnish stripper is the most effective method for taking varnish off of wood. While it…
Shellac had its heyday as a finishing material prior to the 1920s. This hard, shiny, clear finish makes wood gleam. If you want to change the finish on a piece of wood, or the shellac has degraded and needs to be replaced, follow the steps in this article to achieve your goal. I’ll start by teaching…
Brass is a shiny metal will a beautiful appearance, and has long been valued for its hardness and exceptional malleability. This material is used to create many different items for household use, such as jewelry, vases and statues, or kitchen and bathroom taps. Many antique items made of brass are still in circulation today. In this…
No matter how careful you are when applying polyurethane-based finishes, it’s likely that you’ll get some on your hands or skin. There’s no need to panic if this happens, but it would be best to clean the polyurethane off as quickly as possible. First dissolve the chemical, then clean it off quickly and thoroughly, using…
Shellac is a non-toxic, quick-drying liquid. Woodworkers have been using it since the 19th century to solve a variety of woodworking problems. There are two methods for applying shellac to wood. This article will teach you which method to choose for your project and give you step-by-step instructions for applying shellac. What Is Shellac? Shellac is made…
Polyurethane is a sealant that protects wood from water, oil, grease, and heat. When applied, it lends a shiny appearance to the surface of the material. Sealing and protecting with polyurethane is a means of protecting the longevity of wood, as well as beautifying it. The protection offered by polyurethane is only as good as the…
Originally developed for use on boats, ‘spar varnish’ now refers generally to any clear outdoor varnish. I love using spar varnish on outdoor woodworking projects because it produces a thick, heavy seal against the elements. However – it is not easy to work with! Follow along to learn how to apply spar varnish.How to Apply…
Varnish is notoriously difficult to apply, but when done correctly, provides a beautiful and long-lasting finish. In this article, I’ll not only cover the different kinds of varnish, but also give you step-by-step instructions on how to apply it for the best results. I’ll also review the differences between shellac, varnish, and lacquer. What Type of…
A high-quality finishing brush, like the kind used to apply polyurethane, can cost close to $50. Brushes like this that are properly cleaned and well cared for can last up to 20 years. In this article, I’ll teach you how and why to clean and care for your brushes. Cleaning a Polyurethane-coated BrushBefore starting, check your polyurethane…
