Varnish is one of the most durable finishes known to man. It easily holds up against abrasion, heat, water and alcohol. As a bonus, it can even be used over other finishes as a topcoat.
Varnish is revered for its ability to enhance wood’s warmth.
It’s best to apply the varnish horizontally. If there are any drawers or removable parts, remove them and varnish horizontally. Old varnish can contain lumps that will turn the project into a nightmare. Plan the project thoroughly and there shouldn’t be any varnish left over. Apply varnish to one surface at a time, saving the large surfaces for last.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- clean, natural-bristle brush
- new varnish of your choice
- tack cloth
- rosin lint picker
- grade 7/0 sandpaper
- padded sanding block
- furniture (properly prepared, sanded and sealed)
Steps:
- Immediately before applying the varnish, wipe the surface of the furniture with the tack cloth.
- Apply the varnish with smooth, long strokes along the grain of the wood. It is important to not tap the brush to the edge of the container – shake excess off the tip of the brush. There should be no drag on the brush. Have enough on the brush to flow smoothly.
- After applying a coat along the grain of the wood, apply a layer across the grain of the wood in order to even and level the surface.
- Use an almost dry brush to tip off the wet varnish and remove brush strokes. Hold the brush at a slight angle and lightly stroke the surface.
- Allow the finish to dry for at least 24 hours; possibly longer. Keep an eye on it and pick off lint while the surface is wet.
- When dry, gently sand the surface with the grade 7/0 sandpaper wrapped around the padded sanding block. Wipe away residue with tack cloth.
- Add the second coat. Repeating the procedure.