Woodworking Finishing Made Simple

By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Kenneth_J_Ellis]Kenneth J Ellis
After trying many methods of finishing over the years, the one I like best is relatively simple and gives professional results. Try this simple method.
1. 120 grit sandpaper is best for the final sanding. This allows the stain to penetrate the wood. Use 220 grit for the edges. This tends to make the end grain the same color as the face grain.
2. I prefer using an orbital sander for the final sanding. It doesn't leave gouges and scratches like other sanders do. A very good orbital sander is the Makita Bo6030. It gives consistent results and is variable speed. The hook and loop sandpaper is the easiest to use.
3. Hand-sand the edges with a sanding block using 220 grit sandpaper. Depending on the couture, you may have to use your hand instead of the sanding block.
4. Use a scraper in tight places where there are glue spots. It's easier to use than sandpaper and after you gain a little experience, the scraper gives you a nice surface.
Here's an important tip: Clean the air. Allow a day for the dust to settle after sanding. If you have an air cleaner, use it during sanding and during your finish coats. Remove all the dust from the project before staining with a tack cloth.
Woodworking finishing requires a high quality stain such as MinWax penetrating stain. Let the stain penetrate for around 30 to 45 minutes then wipe off with a lint-free cloth. This gives a uniform color to the wood. Allow the stain to dry for a day then apply a second coat. After around 20 to 30 minutes, wipe the second coat off. The second coat gives the project a richer finish than just one coat. Let it dry for another day and you may apply a third coat if you like. Now let the stain dry for several days until it's thoroughly dry before applying the finish coats.
Use a tack cloth to remove any dust that may have settled on the project and apply the finish.
I like using MinWax Fast Drying Polyurethane. It gives an excellent finish and it dries in about four hours. Two coats are usually sufficient and sand lightly between each coat with 220 grit sandpaper. Once you have the desired finish and it's dry, squirt some Formby's Lemon Oil Treatment on the poly surface. Using some 600 grit wet-dry sandpaper and a block, gently smooth out the surface. This final treatment removes any blemishes and gives a professional touch to your project.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Woodworking-Finishing-Made-Simple&id=6765376] Woodworking Finishing Made Simple