
How to apply wiping varnish. Between each coat repeat the previous step of sanding with 400 600 grit sandpaper and wiping the project with mineral spirits. Wet your rag well with the finish or pour some finish onto the wood and spread it around with the rag. As much as for my own curiosity as everyone elses edification i wanted to do a side by side comparison between some popular variations of wiping varnish. The most efficient way to apply wiping varnish when you intend to wipe off all the excess is simply to wipe it on.
Apply 1 2 more coats of varnish until the projects looks acceptable. After overnight drying sand lightly with 320 or 400 grit sandpaper with just your hand backing the sandpaper to remove dust nibs. Wiping varnish on was much faster than brushing and the thinned varnish as it came from the pad was much less likely to sag or drip than straight brushed on varnish. Work in a thin coat.
I find that three coats is perfect for me. You want to put on a wet coat so the wiping varnish penetrates well. In fact the first dvd i ever made focused on my application method for wiping varnishes called a simple varnish finish. I had recently refinished a dory with brushed varnish and the fresh coat would often look fine before i left it to dry but an hour later sags appeared.
Ensure that you are using a clean rag to apply each coat of varnish. The range of finishes available to woodworkers offers a variety of positive attributes. The secret to shop made wiping varnish is a very simple recipe and an easy to master application technique that adds up to the best finish you cant buy. By the way the title is still available on dvd or digitally via the guild.
Again start with a circular motion to apply the varnish. Wipe on wiping varnish. Then follow the grain with light strokes to even out the finish without completely wiping it off and allow it to dry. Wipe away the residue then apply at least one more coat of varnish.
The easiest way to apply wiping varnish is to wipe or brush the finish onto the wood and wipe off the excess before it dries. Most projects will need several coats of varnish. Then remove the dust and apply another coat just as you did the first. Let each coat dry thoroughly.