Preparing Your Surface SandingSanding should result in a smooth, clean surface without swirl marks. Any flaws will only stand out more when the wood is finished. Final sanding should be done with 100 to 150 grit paper. Brush in the direction of the wood grain to remove any dust, and wipe clean with tack cloth or a cloth dampened with paint thinner before staining or applying finish.Staining with Waterlox Original Sealer/FinishIn situations where personal preference requires a change in wood color, a stain can be applied. Waterlox is compatible with most stains, tints, and dyes that DO NOT contain Urethanes. It should be kept in mind that the application of stain has a tendency to emphasize scratches and imperfections and make them more noticeable than a clear finish.
Tip: Waterlox Original Tung Oil Finishes produce a slight “patina” or amber coloration to most woods. Try finishing a test area before staining your wood …You may find that Waterlox alone makes the wood look so beautiful that you’ll want to forgo staining altogether!
There are 2 basic choices for adding color to the wood surface: Staining before finishing with Waterlox or adding stain to your first coat of Waterlox. Either way, it is recommended that the stain and/or stain mixture be tested on a piece of scrap wood or an inconspicuous area of the wood. Staining before finishing with Waterlox Original finishesYou may stain the wood with any type of stain that DOES NOT contain Urethanes. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for cure time or wait 72 hours, whichever is longer, before applying coats of Waterlox Original Finishes.Adding stain to your first coat of Waterlox Original FinishesYou can add up to 1 quart (32 ounces) of “old-fashioned” oil-based stain (containing no additives such as urethane), tint or alcohol based dye to 1 gallon of Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish. This should be done with your first coat of Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish. This method of staining eliminates a separate step and provides a smooth, even color change even on soft woods like pine, which normally become blotchy.
Tip: Make a record of the amount of stain used per quart/gallon so that the procedure can be repeated later if necessary.
Tip: The stain will hold better and last longer if you round the wood’s edges with sandpaper.
