How to Apply Polyurethane Wood Finish

Polyurethane is a clear gloss that goes onto a surface in liquid form and dries hard, like glass. It's the preferred gloss today for most wood furniture, trim and floors, largely replacing varnish, which isn't as shiny or as durable. The main challenge with polyurethane is to avoid creating bubbles that can set in the liquid and dry that way, ruining the look of it. Start with a clean, smooth wood surface, with the wood stain already applied the way you want it.

Polyurethane gloss
Paint stick
Small plastic paint bucket
Paint thinner
Foam brushes
320-grit sandpaper
Tack cloths

Instructions

- 1
  Open your polyurethane gloss. Stir it well but gently, using a paint stick and pulling up the liquid from the bottom of the can to mix it in. (Note: Never shake the can of polyurethane, as this will create bubbles.)
- 2
  Pour the polyurethane into your bucket, putting about half the amount you think you'll need for one coat over the surface.
- 3
  Add an equal amount of paint thinner. Mix well with your paint stick, stirring gently to avoid the formation of bubbles.
- 4
  Use a foam brush to apply the thinned polyurethane to the surface. Brush it on in a thin, even coat, with direction of the wood grain. Cover the whole surface.
- 5
  Let the thinned polyurethane dry for six to eight hours. Lightly sand it with 320-grit sandpaper, using quick, short strokes to just dull the shiny surface without taking it off. Wipe up the dust with tack cloths.
- 6
  Apply a second coat in the same manner as the first, but use full-strength polyurethane instead of thinning it.
- 7
  Let the second coat dry for six to eight hours. Sand it, wipe off the dust, and apply a third coat of full-strength polyurethane. Let it set for 24 hours.

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