Thread: tips for applying wipe on poly

Guys,
It has been a real learning experience. Just when I think I have EVERYTHING I need, then I find out I need SOMETHING else (micromesh pads) LOL. I am at the point of finishing several scales and decided to use wipe on poly. Many people said this is a good starting point. Now I am sure this process varies with wood type. But I am wondering how you you literally apply coats of this stuff. Currently I am putting a dab on a lint free cloth and rubbing it in heavily. I let dry for a couple hours and then sand with 800 grit. I can still see the grains of the wood. I normally rub the wipe on pretty good with a lot of elbow grease. I am wondering if I should "paint" and not rub it in,then sand out the rough finish that dried? I hope this isn't a stupid question. Also when I am done with the wipe on, should I use rouge on the buffing wheel for the final sand? What about sealing it? Thanks for bailing me out guys

Luke

#0000 SS wool works jut fine .
You wipe on the poly not rub it in, its not meant for that.
You wipe the wood with mineral spirits first, then 50/50 mix with wipe on poly to start with. The mix with wipe on poly nd spirits will make penetrating the wood fiber easier, and create foundation for wipe on poly coating on top.
After say 7 coats or wipe on poly only you do one nice thick top coat, then you can polish with maas or novus.

Yes the wood you are using does make a difference in how well this stuff will work, but as for application...

I usually wipe on with a lint free piece and pretty much follow the directions... but I've heard of this guy that applies it with his bare hands...

I usually just finish it up with the finest steel wool, or by rubbing out with some wax.

So do a 50/50 mix of mineral spirits and wipe on? Also what grit sand paper? I have micromest pads that go from 1500-5000. and I have sandpaper from 220-1500. I have been rubbing it in....this must be why....what about sealant?

Originally Posted by eculuke

what about sealant?

What wood are you using? The 50/50 mix would essentially be a sealant, but if the wood is oily you may need a wash coat of dewaxed shellac to get the poly to stick.

Brazilian Rosewood and Birds Eye maple, and Bubinga

Originally Posted by Del1r1um

What wood are you using? The 50/50 mix would essentially be a sealant, but if the wood is oily you may need a wash coat of dewaxed shellac to get the poly to stick.

the 50/50 mineral spirit /wipe on is for a wash coat, but the instructions pretty much say how to use the stuff indeed

Originally Posted by eculuke

Brazilian Rosewood and Birds Eye maple, and Bubinga

The maple should take the finish just fine... the rosewood will probably need help, and I am not 100% about the bubinga. if it's all used on one set, I say do a light wash coat with dewaxed shellac and you'll be good to go.