Want a simple, reliable finish? Learn how to apply wipe-on poly for pro-quality results..
Pro Tips on How to Apply Wipe-On Polyurethane
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Set the stage
Drips happen, so use resin paper, a drop cloth or newspaper to protect your worktable. If your project has legs, make standoffs for them to perch on. Standoffs allow you to wipe finish all the way down to the ends of the legs. They poke holes in the wood, so if you have parts that must be finished on both sides, like a shelf, set them on blocks covered with cloth instead.
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Best cloth for polyurethane application
Cut a T-shirt into 6-in. squares. Fold each square in half, twice, to make applicators. When it comes to the best cloth for polyurethane, soft white cotton works best—any lift behind is less noticeable and the fabric spreads the finish evenly without absorbing too much product.
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Wear gloves
Protect your hands with disposable vinyl or nitrile gloves. You can usually reuse them two or three times before they get too gummed up.
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Pour it in a plastic tub
A margarine or cottage cheese tub is just the right size for applying Rust-Oleum’s wipe-on polyurethane finish. Dip your rag into the finish, squeeze out the excess and wipe on. With the lid in place, the poly will remain fresh for a couple days. After a few days, the solvent will begin to degrade the plastic, so don’t use plastic for long-term storage.
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Smart wipe-on polyurethane application tips for large surfaces
One of the easiest wipe-on polyurethane application tips for covering big areas is to use a paint pad instead of a rag. Available at Amazon and most home centers, a paint pad holds more finish, speeds up the process and gives a consistent coat. You can reuse the pad by storing it in a sealed plastic tub or bag between uses.
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Keep the coats light
Some of the best wood finishes for wipe-on poly come out looking smoothest when applied in multiple thin layers. Three thin coats of wipe-on finish will look smoother than one or two thicker coats. For the best results, don’t sand after the first coat. (You might sand through it!) Apply a second thin coat, then lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper. Then, apply a final thin coat.
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Wipe off intricate projects
On most surfaces, you wipe on the finish and just let it dry. If your project has lots of hard-to-access surfaces, try a different approach. Apply the finish to a limited area, then wipe it off after a few minutes using dry rags. This way, you don’t have to worry about accidentally smearing the finish on an area you’ve already covered. Just wipe it off. Intricate builds—like folding Adirondack chairs—are a great example where this method works well.
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Freshen up an old finish
If your old furniture or woodwork looks dull and lifeless, try renewing it with a few coats of wipe-on finish. Wash it first with dish soap and water, then lightly sand the old finish with 220-grit sandpaper. Vacuum off the dust, then apply the finish as usual. Apply at least two coats to achieve an even sheen
Let the stain dry overnight
Applying poly too soon after staining is always risky. And it’s even riskier with wipe-on poly. If the stain isn’t completely dry, wiping it with a rag soaked with finish will cause it to smear. To avoid blotches and uneven results, it helps to understand how to properly stain and varnish wood before applying your finish.
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Sand by hand
Don’t use an electric sander between coats. It will remove too much finish. Sand by hand instead. Fold the paper in thirds so it doesn’t wrinkle, then hold it flat with two or three fingers. Be careful near sharp or slightly rounded edges, though. Sanding too hard might cut through the finish and leave bare wood. It’s best not to sand them at all.
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Want ultra smooth? Try steel wool
If you’re using an oil-based finish and you want to make a surface smooth as glass, apply the last coat with 00 steel wool. Rub hard. The steel wool will cut through any nibs or dust on the surface. To capture the grit and to maintain an even sheen, use a bunch of dry rags to wipe off the finish before it dries. This will leave only an ultra-thin film of finish on the surface.
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Wet rags are a fire hazard
If rags wet with finish are wadded up, they can heat up, smolder and catch on fire as they dry. However, wet rags are safe if you dispose of them properly. Take them outside and separate them. Place them on concrete or asphalt or hang them with clothespins to dry overnight. Be sure to keep them away from kids and pets. Once the rags are stiff, they’re no longer a fire hazard. You can put them in the trash. This kind of simple precaution is one of many solid ways to help prevent home fires.
Preventing common wipe-on poly mistakes
One of the most frequent problems DIYers face is bubbles in the finish. The key is to stir the product gently by shaking the can. Always apply thin, even coats in a dust-free space using smooth strokes.
When figuring out how to apply wipe-on poly correctly, it helps to know what causes cloudy spots, blotchiness or a tacky surface. These problems often stem from applying coats too thickly, working in high humidity or not allowing enough drying time. Stick to thin layers, stir the finish thoroughly and maintain good airflow for the best results.
FAQ
How long should I wait between coats of wipe-on poly?
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times between coats. For stained surfaces, let the stain dry completely overnight before applying wipe-on poly.
