How to coat interior furniture and trim
Interior clears, stains and 2-in-1's application guide
1. Before you start
The starting point is to decide what kind of finish you want? Once decided, refer to the Interior Timber Product Guide to determine which product you need, and use the Product Calculator to determine how much you will need to complete the job. Remember that the timber type will affect how much product is required e.g. softwoods can reduce coverage rates by up to 50%. Also, remember to collect the appropriate equipment before you start.
2. Preparation
A professional looking finish depends on how well you prepare the timber. Inadequate preparation, especially sanding, can result in a rough, patchy finish. Most of all, timber needs careful sanding to remove scratches etc., as all imperfections are magnified when coated.
Clean: The surface must be dry and free from any traces of dust, dirt, wax, grease and oil.
Fill: With Cabot's Wood Tone Putty, matched to the colour of the timber. Do not use linseed oil putty.
Sand: It is important that all of the old coating is removed to ensure penetration of the new stain or adhesion of the clear finish. Rough sand first to remove any old coating, followed by a finer sand for a smooth finish. Follow the grid below for suggested paper grades for the best result. Always sand along the direction of the grain. Lightly sand raw timber to allow the product to penetrate and achieve a smooth, even finish.
Wipe: Remove all sanding dust by wiping the surface thoroughly after sanding. Wash the surface with mineral turpentine (for oil based finishes) or methylated spirits (for water based finishes). Allow to dry completely before proceeding.
| Method | 1. Rough prep sand | 2. Fine sand before 1st coat | 3. Sanding between coats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hand sanding | 120 grade | 180 - 280 grade | 280 - 320 grade |
| Orbital/belt sander | 100 grade | 180 - 280 grade | 280 - 320 grade |
Handy Hint
Applying Clear Finishes
Stir thoroughly before and during use – do not shake. Do not stir or shake Gel Clear as this will cause its gel properties to be reduced. Follow the table below when applying clears, or when top coating stains and 2-in-1 products.
| Using | Coat | In between, and to finish |
|---|---|---|
| Cabothane | Using a brush, apply 2-3 coats with a light sand between coats. Do not over brush | Allow a minimum of 8 hrs drying time between coats |
| Crystal Clear | Apply 3 even coats. Take care to avoid excessive working or uneven heavy film build, as this can result in air bubbles and a soft, cloudy film when dry. Lightly sand between coats. | Allow a minimum of 3 hrs drying time between coats |
| Gel Clear | Load the brush by dipping directly into the gel without undue stirring or agitation. Apply directly to the surface and brush out to a smooth, uniform finish. Do not over brush. Apply 2-3 coats with a light sand between coats. | Allow a minimum of 8 hrs drying time between coats |
| Danish Oil | Apply a full, even coat. Using 400 grade wet and dry sandpaper, rub Danish Oil into the timber while wet, which will result in a beautiful, smooth oiled finish. Allow to set for approximately 10 minutes, then wipe off excess with a soft cloth. Finish by wiping the timber in the direction of the grain. | Allow a minimum of 8 hrs drying time between coats. If greater lustre and protection is required, a second coat may be applied. Sand lightly between coats |
Applying Stains
| Steps | Woodcraft Stain | Interior Stain |
|---|---|---|
| Apply | Stir thoroughly before and during use. Apply one coat of stain with a brush or rag, taking care not to load the applicator too heavily. | |
| Wait | 1 – 3 minutes | 2 – 10 minutes |
| Remove | With a soft, lint free cloth, use a circular motion to work stain into the timber. The intensity of the colour of the stain will depend upon the porosity of the timber and the length of time before the stain is wiped off. Ensure all excess stain is wiped off. | |
| Finish with | Recommended – Crystal Clear Also suitable – Cabothane, Gel Clear |
Recommended – Cabothane Also suitable – Danish Oil, Gel Clear or Crystal Clear |
| Dry time | 3 hours with Crystal Clear. 12 hours with Cabothane or Gel Clear | 8 hours with Cabothane, Gel Clear or Danish Oil. 24 hours with Crystal Clear |
Applying Stains & Varnishes
| Steps | Interior Varnish Stain | Stain & Varnish |
|---|---|---|
| Apply | Stir thoroughly before and during use. Apply the first coat, taking care to avoid excess brushing and build up of stain on the edges. Avoid working back over the surface after the film has set as this can result in a patchy, streaky appearance. | |
| Dry time | Allow at least 3 hours drying time between coats. Lightly sand before the application of the next coat and remove dust. | Allow at least 8 hours drying time between coats. Lightly sand before the application of the next coat and remove dust. |
| Repeat | With two additional coats, building to the desired level of colour required. If the colour is suitable after only two coats, top coat with appropriate clear finish to complete the three coat system. | |
| Finish with | Crystal Clear for Interior Varnish Stain. Three coats are required in total to complete the system. | Cabothane or Gel Clear for Stain & Varnish. Three coats are required in total to complete the system. |
