how do you apply wipe on poly finish

How Should I Wipe On Poly Finish?

• Start by sanding your project to remove any dirt or debris.
• Apply a coat of polyurethane to the wood using a clean cloth. Be sure to apply it in a thin, even layer.
• Let the polyurethane dry for 24 hours.
• Repeat the process until you have achieved the desired level of protection and shine.
• Tips For Applying Polyurethane.
• Here are a few tips to help you get the best results when applying polyurethane:
• Be sure to sand your project before applying the polyurethane. This will help ensure that the finish is smooth and even.

Full Answer

How do I apply wipe-on Poly to my woodworking projects?

Here is how I apply wipe-on poly to my woodworking projects. Begin by preparing the wood surface for the finish. This means sanding the finish as smooth as you want. For most indoor furniture, I will move my way up through the sanding grits on a hand-held random orbit sander, beginning at 120, then going to 150 or 180 and finally finishing at 220.

How to apply wipe on polyurethane finish?

To apply wipe on polyurethane finish, you will need a few supplies. Find a good quality brush or roller. Thin the polyurethane with paint thinner or mineral spirits. You will need to apply the polyurethane in thin, even layers. Let the polyurethane dry for 24 hours between coats. You will also need to store your finished project in a dry place.

How do you use Minwax wipe on poly?

Shake Minwax® Wipe-On Poly before and during use to eliminate settling on the bottom of the can. Apply a liberal amount of Wipe-On Poly to a clean, soft, lint-free cloth and rub it into the wood. Let dry 2-3 hours.

How long does wipe-on poly need to dry before painting?

Typically, you should only need a couple of coats of wipe-on poly on an already-painted surface. After applying the finish, allow the coating to dry for 24 hours before touching the surface. Can You Store Unused Poly? After opening a sealed can of wipe-on poly, you can store it in an air-tight container even if you mix it with mineral spirits.

How do you use wipe on finish?

1:5816:40How to apply a Wipe on Poly Finish - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd in the corners. I use a foam brush so i'll put a little extra. Poly there and you'll see when i'MoreAnd in the corners. I use a foam brush so i'll put a little extra. Poly there and you'll see when i'm doing it i'll use this in the corner to make sure that i get the corners nice and saturated.

Do you brush or wipe polyurethane on?

Brush-on polyurethane provides excellent protection in just a few coats. However, it can be difficult to apply without brush marks and drips. Often, it is best to use brush-on poly for exposed flat surfaces that will see significant wear and tear, such as table tops.

What kind of rag do you use for Wipe-On Poly?

I like to use 220 grit, but you could use a higher grit like 320 if you want. You could also use 0000 Steel Wool. One you are done sanding, wipe off any dust with a lint-free cloth or a micro-fiber tack cloth.

How long between coats of Wipe-On Poly?

Wipe-On Poly will dry to the touch in 2-4 hours, to handle in 8-12 hours and can be recoated in 4-6 hours. Full cure will be achieved in 24 hours. Use paint thinner or mineral spirits.

How do you apply Wipe on Poly without streaks?

1:322:57Applying Poly (with no streaks) - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou just take some high grit sandpaper. And you just touch it up you don't want to rub too hard onMoreYou just take some high grit sandpaper. And you just touch it up you don't want to rub too hard on it because you don't want to take off your layer that you just put on.

Do you sand between coats of wipe on poly?

Keep the coats light 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.

Is one coat of wipe-on poly enough?

As a rule, it takes three coats of wipe-on to match the buildup that you get from one coat of brush-on poly. That said, the speed of wipe-on application often makes up for those extra coats.

Is wipe-on poly any good?

All but two of the finishes tested fared well, but the Minwax Wipe-On Poly was particularly impressive, drying in three hours to a light satin sheen and offering excellent water resistance. It's a thin finish that requires more coats to build when brushing, but it still yields good results.

How do you prevent polyurethane from brush marks?

When the brush marks don't resolve themselves, try a few corrective techniques.Use a foam brush or a lambswool applicator instead of a brush. ... Use a natural-bristle brush rather than a synthetic one if you are using a bristle brush. ... Thin your polyurethane with paint thinner, mixing it with a paint stir stick.More items...

Can you buff Wipe on Poly?

Buffing really does make it easy to get superb results on wood finished with polyurethane, even waterbased. That's what you'll learn about here. Buffing works beautifully, even if you've applied a finish that's not too smooth to begin with.

Can you apply Poly with a rag?

Polyurethane is so durable and water-resistant, it has largely replaced shellac and varnish as a wood finish. Originally, it had to be brushed on, but different formulations mean it can now be applied as a spray or by wiping it on with a rag.

Is Wipe on Poly durable?

1:575:11Don't buy wiping polyurethane! (How to make AND use it properly.)YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd that brings us to the essential. Question why wipe on a polyurethane. Straight from the canMoreAnd that brings us to the essential. Question why wipe on a polyurethane. Straight from the can polyurethane is kind of thick it dries slowly. Giving more time for dust to settle. And get stuck in the

What do you do after the last coat of polyurethane?

How to Dry Sand the Last Coat of PolyurethaneStep 1: Vacuum the Surface. ... Step 2: Wipe the Surface with Mineral Spirits or Water* ... Step 3: Let the Water Evaporate. ... Step 4: Start Sanding. ... Step 5: Clean the Surface. ... Step 6: Use a Finer grit.

Can you wipe on regular polyurethane?

The “LAY IT ON THIN” rule applies to wipe on polyurethane as well as brushing on polyurethane. Thin happens in two ways. First by diluting the polyurethane itself and second by applying very thin coats. Be sure that the rag you use is clean, dust-free and lint-free.

How do you apply polyurethane?

Using a bristle brush, apply the first coat of polyurethane in long, broad strokes. Keep the application thin, so it goes on evenly and neither pools nor drips. Coat the entire surface. Once finished, wait for the polyurethane to dry.

Can I use a foam brush for wipe-on poly?

Is it OK to use a foam brush for polyurethane? Yes, it is OK to use a foam brush to apply polyurethane. However, it isn't the best choice for larger projects because the foam doesn't spread the polyurethane as well as a synthetic or natural brush.

How do You Mix Wipe-on Poly?

If not, you can mix it up yourself. Whatever type of wipe-on poly you get, a good mix is 80% polyurethane and 20% mineral spirits. However, this is just an approximation. Mix enough mineral spirits into the poly to make it a consistency that can be easily absorbed by a cloth and wiped onto a wooden surface.

How to Prep a Wooden Surface Before Applying Wipe-On Poly?

The final result of your finish depends a lot on how you prep the wood’s surface before applying the finish. Use 220-grit sandpaper to make the surface smooth. You may need to use a wood grain filler for woods like oak, walnut, or ash with open-grain wood patterns.

What is Wipe-On Polyurethane?

Wipe-on polyurethane is an oil-based polyurethane that we also call “wipe-on poly.” It is a popular type of wood finish because it imparts durability to the wood surface and enhances its looks. Wipe-on poly is a preferred type of wood finish because of the simplicity of application where instead of a brush, you only need a waste rag with which to apply the finish.

What is the Best Cloth for Wipe-On Polyurethane?

It is preferable using a white cloth because you can see dust particles and solid contaminants easily. Ensure that the surface of your rag is clean and only contains polyurethane before you start applying it to the wood. If you wish you can also purchase a specially made microfiber cloth like this one – although it’s probably an unnecessary expense – unless you have an important project or just prefer to use something new and clean vs repurposing old clothes or kitchen towels.

How Long to Wait Between Coats While Applying Wipe-On Poly?

It would help if you allowed sufficient time for a coating of wipe-on poly to dry before applying the next coat. Wait for a minimum of two to three hours before applying the next coat. Or, if you have the time, you can even wait overnight. The drying time also depends on atmospheric conditions. The finish will dry faster in hot, dry weather and will take a longer time to dry in a humid environment. You risk causing blotches if you start applying the next coat before the previous one is thoroughly dry.

How to Safely Dispose of Rags After Applying Wipe-On Poly?

The safest procedure is to spread them out in the open, separately weighted down with a stone on a non-flammable surface overnight. Once the rags are dried stiff, they do not pose a fire hazard anymore, and you can throw them away in the trash.

Can you Apply Poly Over Paint?

Applying poly over an existing coat of paint is possible if the painted surface is dry, oil-free, and free from debris. Typically, you should only need a couple of coats of wipe-on poly on an already-painted surface. After applying the finish, allow the coating to dry for 24 hours before touching the surface.

What is wipe on polyurethane?

Wipe-On (also called oil-based) polyurethane blends the best of both worlds of finishing: the high durability and protection of polyurethane with the simple wipe on application of an oil finish. Unlike water-based polyurethanes, you don't have to worry about drips or brush marks.

How long does it take for a sandpaper to dry?

After 3-4 hours check to see if the piece is dry. They dry time will vary depending on temperature and humidity. If the piece is dry give it a light sanding with a high grit sandpaper. I like to use 220 grit, but you could use a higher grit like 320 if you want. You could also use 0000 Steel Wool.

How many coats of sandpaper should I use?

Repeat the steps to reapply as many coats as you want. For most of my projects I will apply 2-3 coats, but you could apply more.

How many coats of wipe on poly?

As a rule, it takes three coats of wipe-on to match the buildup that you get from one coat of brush-on poly. That said, the speed of wipe-on application often makes up for those extra coats. 2 / 13.

What to use to protect worktable?

Drips happen, so use res in 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.

How to make glass smooth?

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.

What is the best clear coating?

The best choice for a clear coating is often a specialized finish like pre-catalyzed lacquer —but that assumes you have a spray booth outfitted with high-end equipment. For most of us, polyurethane provides a combination of cost and durability that’s hard to beat. With wipe-on poly, you also get goof-proof simplicity, speed and convenience.

Can you apply polyurethane after staining?

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. Ugly!

Does wiping poly paint require skill?

Unlike brushing, wiping on a flawless coat of poly doesn’t require skill or an expensive brush. + DUST TOLERANT. Because the coating is thin and dries fast, “nubs” caused by airborne dust are much less likely. That makes it great for on-site finishing. + NO CLEANUP.

Can you sand after a first coat of paint?

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. Check out this simple sanding trick for touch to reach places.

How much does wipe on poly cost?

Most home centers carry various sheens, but only one brand. All these options, and more, are available online. Prices start at about $15 per quart.

What to do when brush on poly goes wrong?

When brush-on poly goes wrong—dust nubs, sags, brush marks—you can correct it. After the finish has fully dried, sand with soapy water or mineral spirits and 400-grit wet/dry paper. After you’ve sanded the finish flat and smooth, a couple light coats of wipe-on poly will give you a perfect surface.

How to protect worktable from drips?

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, such as a shelf, set them on blocks covered with cloth instead.

How to protect polyurethane on door?

When you need a thick, protective buildup of poly on a door or tabletop, you have three choices: Go with brush-on poly, apply several coats of wipe-on, or do a combination of both. You can, for example, brush on two coats for a heavy build, then apply wipe-on for a flawless surface. Sand the brushed-on finish absolutely smooth and apply at least two wipe-on coats for a consistent sheen. To make sure the two finishes bond to each other, they should both be oil-based or water-based. Using products from the same company is a good idea too.

What is general finish?

General Finishes Arm-R-Seal is formulated for brushing or wiping. It’s slightly less amber than the other oil-based finishes.

What is the best clear coat for furniture?

The best choice for a clear coating is often a specialized finish like pre-catalyzed lacquer —but that assumes you have a spray booth outfitted with high-end equipment. For most of us, polyurethane provides a combination of cost and durability that’s hard to beat. With wipe-on poly, you also get goof-proof simplicity, speed and convenience. It’s not only works on furniture, it’s also a great way to finish trim.

Can you reuse a paint pad?

A paint pad holds more finish than a rag and wipes it on faster. You can reuse a paint pad, too. After each coat, just store it in a sealed plastic tub or plastic bag. Get a paint pad at any home center for about $5.