Minwax

Application instructions:

  1. Fill nail holes with Fix Wood Patch. Do not use plastic wood.
  2. Sand specific areas with 120 sandpaper to clear blemishes. If you desire, Minwax also produces wax filler pencils to match most of their stains that can be used after applying your final finish.
  3. After taking care of holes and blemishes, sand the entire piece uniformly with 180-grade sandpaper. Finer sandpaper or steel wool should not be used as they polish the surface off too smoothly.
  4. Remove dust with a vacuum and tack cloth.
  5. Stir the stain thoroughly, which lifts the pigment from the bottom of the can. Stir occasionally during application to maintain a consistent color.
  6. Test the color on a concealed area that has been prepared as directed to check that you have selected the proper color.
  7. Brush on a liberal coat of stain, one section at a time. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood for five to 15 minutes without allowing the stain to dry, and wipe off the excess. It is best to stain all surfaces, including the underside of tops and the inside of drawers, to prevent warping.
  8. After waiting four to six hours, apply a second coat of stain in the same manner as the first.
    • The second coat will even out light and dark color variations.
    • The longer the stain is allowed to sit, up to a maximum of 15 minutes without being allowed to dry, the deeper the color tone that will result.
  9. After waiting eight hours, apply a top coat of finish of your choice.