GLUING HINTS:
These are general hints. Refer to the instruction sheet for detailed information on
gluing your specific product. Your unit may not need gluing.
We
strongly
recommend that you first lay out all the parts and familiarize yourself with how they fit together before
assembling with glue. Glue will set up quickly and can cause damage to the parts if you try to reposition any that
have been assembled incorrectly.
We recommend that you use a good wood glue, such as
Elmer’s Wood Glue or White Glue, Titebond Wood Glue
or the equivalent; unless the instructions call for a special type such as a slow drying epoxy glue. Carefully read the
glue manufacturer’s label and follow all instructions.
Be sure the holes are clear of any dust so the glue will have a clean surface to adhere to. Blowing in the holes
before gluing is recommended,
but be sure to protect your eyes.
Avoid getting glue on surfaces to be finished!
Most stains or finishes will not penetrate where glue has been
spilled. Wet glue can be wiped off with a damp cloth. Follow with a light sanding of the area to ensure a proper
finish.
Do not over glue!
Because of the fit of the spindles or dowels in the holes, the spindle or dowel pushes glue to the
bottom of the hole. If too much glue is used, it will fill the hole and not allow the spindle or dowel to go all the way
in. It is important to apply an even coat inside all holes and slots. Use a small dowel or pencil to spread glue evenly
around the inside of the holes.
Glue usually takes several hours to cure (or harden) but it will sometimes set up, or grab, in several seconds.
Therefore, once you begin final assembly, be sure to proceed quickly and diligently.
STAINING:
1.
Read and follow label directions. Stir stain well before starting.
2.
Test stain on an inconspicuous spot on your project, or use the sample chip if one is provided. The sample
chip must be sanded in the same way as your furniture kit to ensure the piece will accept the stain
similarly. Put at least one coat of your top coat over the stain sample, as it also affects the look of the stain.
Test every type of wood that is in your kit.
Some of our products include more than one type of wood,
which may react differently to the stain color. Sample chips for the different woods may be included. It may
be necessary to add a second coat of stain to lighter woods to match the darker woods in your kit.
3.
Apply stain with a poly brush or lint-free cloth. Apply stain over a small area and wipe off excess. Working
in small areas will make the color easier to control.
4.
Q-tips are ideal for hard-to-get areas.
5.
Allow to dry
thoroughly before proceeding.
APPLYING THE TOP COAT:
1.
All surfaces (including the underside of table tops and inside drawers) must be sealed with a top coat. This
will help minimize wood swelling and shrinkage due to changes in moisture content or temperature.
2.
Always read and follow all label directions. Stir your finish coat gently, do not shake. It will create bubbles
that are hard to remove.
3.
We recommend that you
apply a minimum of two coats when using polyurethane or varnish. Sand lightly
between coats using a #320 grit sandpaper or 00 steel wool for the smoothest possible finish.
4.
Some water-based finishes tend to raise the grain slightly. This can be easily controlled with this sanding
step. However, do not use steel wool when using water-based finishes. Strands of steel fiber caught in the
wood can cause rust spots when coated with any water-based product.
5.
No top coat is required for paint.
PAINTING:
1.
For best results when painting, first coat the wood with a primer. An oil based primer would be best for a
smooth finish. If you do not wish to use a solvent based primer, a water based primer would work almost
as well.
2
. Buy a quality brand paint. You may use a satin, semi-gloss, or gloss sheen. Apply a second coat for a
smooth finish. Lightly sand between coats using a #320 grit sandpaper, so that the second coat will bond
well. Repeat as desired.
3.
Since there is such a variation between paint manufacturers, refer to your paint supplier for specific
advice on using the paint that you purchase.
FH E – Page 2
