Product Brochure

How to Stain and Protect
with Varathane oil or water based stains and polyurethanes
PREP
 Sand wood in the direction of the grain
with 120-grit sandpaper. Repeat the
process with 150, 180, and finish with
220-grit sandpaper.
 For water based stain projects, apply
Classic Wood Conditioner prior to
finishing with the 220-grit sandpaper.
 Remove all sanding dust with a
vacuum cleaner or tack cloth.
STAIN
 Liberally apply stain using a clean,
lint-free cloth or high-quality bristle
brush.
If using Pre-Tinted Classic
Water Based Wood Stain, apply with
clean, lint-free cloth, do not
use a bristle or foam brush.
 Allow stain to sit 3–5 minutes;
wipe off excess stain in the direction
of the grain.
If desired, additional coats
can be applied.See label instructions.
 Refer to the product label for the
appropriate dry time before applying
polyurethane.
PROTECT
 Apply a Varathane Polyurethane for
long term protection.
 For a crystal-clear finish,
use water based
 For a warm amber finish,
use oil based
 Brush in direction of grain using thin,
uniform coats; do not over-brush.
 Wait the appropriate dry time (see product label), sanding
with 220-grit sandpaper in between coats as needed.
(strongly recommended for water based polyurethane).
 For maximum durability, a minimum of 3 coats are recommended.

1

2

3
26

Clean, lint-free cloths

High-quality
bristle brush
(Natural for Oil Based,
Synthetic for Water Based)

Protective gloves

Sandpaper - 120, 150,
180 & 220-grit

Stir stick