How to Use Polyurethane Varnish

Polyurethane varnish is an oil-based resin popularly used to finish wooden surfaces. Once applied, it enhances and restores the wood's natural color and beauty. The durable varnish also provides long term protection that preserves your project's appearance. Some patience is necessary to successfully restore worn or tarnished wood, but the process itself is rather simple and requires little to no experience.

100-grit sandpaper
150-grit sandpaper
Shop vacuum
1 can polyurethane varnish
Stir stick
Glass jar
Mineral spirits
Natural-bristle brush
300 or 400-grit sandpaper

Instructions

- 1
  Sand your project evenly with medium sandpaper (100-grit) to prepare a smooth surface. Follow up with a finer paper (150-grit) to remove imperfections in the wood.
- 2
  Vacuum the surface using a shop vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Wipe the wood with a clean tack cloth to remove any remaining sawdust or residue.
- 3
  Stir the a can of oil-based polyurethane varnish using a flat stir stick. Carefully pour some of the contents into a glass jar.
- 4
  Dilute the polyurethane in the jar with mineral spirits to create a sealant. Mix one part mineral spirits and two parts varnish before stirring the product.
- 5
  Dip a natural-bristle brush into the mixture and begin sealing the wood. Use even strokes from end to end, following the grain of the wood. Allow 24 hours for the seal to dry completely.
- 6
  Brush on a coat of the undiluted varnish straight from the can using the same technique. Avoid over-saturating your brush to avoid drips. Wait 1 to 2 hours before preparing for a second coat.
- 7
  Scuff the surface lightly with very fine sandpaper (300 to 400-grit) to provide better adhesion for the next coat. Apply another layer of polyurethane and repeat the process until desired results are met. Do not sand the final coat, which serves as your topcoat.

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