Whittier Finishing Hints
P.O. Box 2827
Eugene, OR 97402 USA
Toll Free: 800-653-3336
Ph: 541-687-0213
Fax: 541-687-2060
www.whittierwood.com
Page 2 of 2
Rev. 04/11
Preparing the surface
1.
Sand each piece with #220 grit sandpaper. Sand
with the grain of the wood on flat surfaces and
opposite the grain on turnings. Some parts may be
plywood. Be careful not to sand through the veneer.
End grain such as table top ends, seat edges and
grooves on turnings accept more stain. Extra
sanding in these areas with #320 grit sandpaper
reduces stain absorption and creates a more evenly
stained piece.
2.
When sanding is completed, wipe the surface of
your furniture with a lint-free rag or tack cloth. Make
sure the item is free of dust before you proceed.
Staining
1.
Read and follow label directions. Stir the stain well
before you start. Stir periodically throughout the
duration of the project to maintain uniform color
consistency.
2.
Test stain on an inconspicuous spot on your project.
Put at least one coat of your top coat over the test
area as it also affects the look of the stain.
Test
every type of wood that is in your kit. These are
identified in the Assembly Instructions
.
Different
types of wood may react differently to the stain
color. You might need 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.
Cotton swabs are ideal for hard to reach areas.
5.
Allow the stain to dry thoroughly before you
proceed.
Applying the top coat
1.
Always read and follow all label directions
. Stir your
top coat gently; do not shake. Shaking the can
creates bubbles that are hard to remove.
2.
All surfaces including the underside of table tops
and inside drawers must be sealed with at least one
layer of a top coat. This will help minimize wood
swelling, shrinkage, warping and cupping due to
changes in moisture content or temperature.
3.
Apply a minimum of two coats when you use
polyurethane or varnish (especially on all table top
and work surfaces). After allowing the first coat to
dry, sand lightly with #320 grit sandpaper. Remove
dust with a lint-free rag or tack cloth. For added
protection, apply additional coats. Lightly sand and
wipe surface with a lint-free rag or tack cloth
between coats.
4.
Some finishes tend to slightly raise the grain. This
can be easily controlled with a light sanding between
coats. Do not use steel wool when you use water-
based finishes. Strands of steel fiber caught in the
wood can cause rust spots when coated with any
water-based product.
Painting
1.
Since there is a large variation between paint
manufacturers and products, ask your paint supplier
for specific advice on how to best use the paint you
purchase. Ask them specifically for advice on
finishing bare wood.
2.
First coat the wood with a primer. An oil based
primer works best for a smooth finish. If you do not
wish to use a solvent based primer, water based
primer works almost as well. However it may raise
the wood grain and require additional sanding.
3.
Buy quality brand paint in a satin, semi-gloss, or
gloss sheen. Apply a second coat for a smooth
finish. Lightly sand between coats using with #320
grit sandpaper so that the second coat will bond
well. Be sure to use a tack cloth after sanding to
remove any residue. Repeat as desired.
4.
No top coat is required when using paint.
