Applying a clear finish to wood brings out the wood s natural beauty while sealing and protecting the wood s surface.
What does clear coat do for wood.
It gives the piece a shield against scratches water rings from drinking glasses and just dirt in general.
When you rub stain into wood it brings out the grain.
Start by sanding the surface thoroughly and wiping it down to remove any dust.
Most clear finishes are available in gloss semi gloss and satin sheens.
Clear coating furniture whether bare wood or previously stained or painted creates a long lasting stain and scratch resistant finish.
They provide a natural appearance with a variety of satin semi gloss and glossy sheens and are ideal for kitchen cabinets doors furniture and floors but not recommended for outdoor use.
A clear coat often referred to as a poly or top coat basically a clear protective finish that you brush on your painted or stained furniture piece after it has dried.
Oil based polyurethane is an excellent product to use for this purpose.
A fresh coat of paint can give almost any wooden piece such as furniture cabinets or room trim a much needed face lift.
It can be affected by heat white rings will appear under a hot bowl or mug or chemicals so a kitchen table might not be the best place to use it.
Whether you choose to stain your wood project or not it is important that you protect the wood with a clear finish such as polyurethane.
You can substantially extend the good looks of your furniture.
A stain is intended to darken or color wood by adding pigments but stain does not protect the wood.
Go a step further and apply a clear polyurethane over the painted surface to help protect the paint as well as the underlying wood.
Fine furniture items can be greatly enhanced with shellac.
In addition to adding a protective coat it also can add a warm amber color to wood.
Stain and a finish are two entirely different things.
While wood stains add color and bring out the beauty of the wood clear finishes protect the wood and enhance its beauty.