Furniture
You want to varnish your furniture but don’t know where to start?
We’ll guide you through the steps and provide the best tips to help you apply Finitec furniture varnishes perfectly!
Contact our customer service for more information
The different
steps to follow
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Step 1 Cleaning
Make sure the surface is free of any greasy, oily, or waxy residue. It is recommended to clean the surface thoroughly with a degreasing cleaner such as Finitec Surface Preparation.
Proper cleaning facilitates sanding and stripping.
Note: If you are using a stripper, it is very important to properly neutralize the surface before finishing. -
Step 2 Sanding
- If possible, sand thoroughly in the direction of the wood grain using 120-grit sandpaper (do not use steel wool). Proper sanding ensures a smooth surface and good adhesion.
- Completely remove dust with damp cloths to avoid any residue sticking in the varnish.
- It is recommended to use a sanding block for flat surfaces.
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Step 3 Stain, paint, and faux finishes
Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for applying stain or faux finishes. Generally, before applying varnish, the drying time for water-based stains is 24 hours and 48 hours for oil-based stains.
Finitec varnishes are compatible with most oil- or water-based products. Always do an adhesion test beforehand. -
Step 4 Bare wood:
- The wood must be bare, clean, and dry (see SANDING).
- Perform a test beforehand on a small section under real application conditions and methods to check varnish adhesion, compatibility, and color.
- Apply 3 to 4 coats of the Finitec varnish of your choice using the following method:
- Stir the varnish for at least 45 seconds and let it sit for 10 minutes to allow bubbles to dissipate. Use a clean stick to ensure the product is homogeneous.
- If possible, apply an even coat in the direction of the wood grain (complete the entire piece in the same direction) using the applicator. Smooth out marks and lines in the varnish to get an even finish.
- Allow 2 to 3 hours of drying time between coats (may vary depending on ambient conditions).
- Sand between coats using 180-grit sandpaper.
- Do not sand before the final coat if the time between the last two applications does not exceed 3 hours.
- Clean tools with water.
Previously varnished wood (restoration):
Can be applied over most oil- and water-based varnishes. No sheen (top layer of varnish) should remain on the surface (see SANDING).
Apply 2 coats of the Finitec varnish of your choice following the above instructions. -
Step 5 Applicator
Choosing the right applicator: synthetic bristle brush, foam brush, Finitec varnish applicator, or roller.