How to Finish a Mahogany Door

Before Finishing

• 1

  Place the door on a flat, level surface such as a workbench or a table.

• 2

  Brush an oil-based sealant on the outer edges of the door to prevent any moisture from being absorbed.

• 3

  Allow the door to rest inside your home for a few weeks so it can acclimate to the temperature and humidity. If you do not do this, the door could warp once you install it.

Stain and Clear Finish

• 4

  Sand the entire door surface with 180-grit sandpaper. Take care to sand out any nicks, fingerprints or dings that can occur during handling. Wipe off the door with a clean rag to remove all sawdust.

• 5

  Brush on a stain and sealer compound that is alkyd-resin based. The compound will add color to the door, as well as seal the surfaces. Do not use a lacquer-based finish. Allow the door to dry.

• 6

  Apply a solvent-borne or water-borne clear finish for the second coat or layer. Allow the finish to dry. Use a 180-grit sandpaper to remove any uneven areas of the finish. Wipe the door clean with a fresh rag.

• 7

  Brush on another coat of either solvent-borne or water-borne clear finish for the third layer. Allow to dry and sand out any areas that are uneven.

Paint Finish

• 8

  Sand the entire door surface with 180-grit sandpaper. Remove any nicks, fingerprints or dings that can occur during handling. Wipe off the door with a clean rag to remove all sawdust.

• 9

  Apply an oil-based primer for the first coat. Allow to dry and sand out any globs of paint that may have pooled.

• 10

  Brush on a coat of either an oil-based or latex resin-based paint. Try to use paint that is made by the same manufacturer that made the primer, as the paints will usually combine better.

• 11

  Apply another coat of oil-based or latex resin-based paint. Allow to dry and remove any imprefections with 180-grit sandpaper.