Complete Guide to
INTERIOR FINISHING
O v e r a C e n t u r y o f Wo o d c a r e
Since inventing our very first wood stain in 1877, Cabot has been specifically dedicated to preserving the beauty of wood. Today, Cabot offers a comprehensive family of woodcare products that have been specifically formulated to work together as a system. The result is a complete collection of premium-quality products that add beauty and protection to virtually any interior project.
Makes Beautiful Results Easy
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P R E PA R E
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STA I N
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Proper surface preparation is the key to a successful project. Begin by thoroughly sanding the surface with progressively finer grades of sandpaper. Applying a wood conditioner prior to staining softwoods will help develop a more even and uniform color. Start with Cabot for a great finish.
Cabot’s premium Wood Stain enhances the natural beauty of wood while developing rich colors that accentuate wood grain. Available in both oil-based and water-borne formulas, Cabot Wood Stains are user-friendly and allow for even color development for beautiful results. Choose from the warm wood tones of our ready-mix color palette or the expanded selection of our custom-tinted colors.
P ROT E C T Cabot offers a collection of clear finishes that offer superior clarity and lasting durability. Whether you choose oil or water-borne polyurethane, varnish, or brushing lacquer, you’ll find superior quality in every can. Plus, with three sheens to choose from, you’ll develop a finish that will protect your project for years to come.
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P R E PA R E
A Good Start for a Great Finish SANDING The first step towards professional results is proper sanding. Be sure to use only high-quality sandpaper and always sand in the direction of the wood grain. Begin with coarser sandpaper with a lower grit such as 120 and then use progressively finer sandpaper towards 200 or 220 grit. Remember, the higher the number, the finer the grit and the smoother the finish. To improve results, always clear sanding dust between steps.
CLEANING Once the sanding is complete, be sure to remove all sanding dust. For larger areas, begin with a vacuum. Finish by removing all sanding and dust particles by wiping completely with a tack cloth.
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STA I N
E n h a n c i n g Wo o d ’ s N a t u r a l B e a u t y
The right stain can accentuate and highlight the natural grain and add beauty to any woodworking project. Wood stain can help blend the appearance of different pieces of wood or even different wood species. To ensure the best possible results, begin by choosing the right stain for your project.
Choosing the Right Stain
OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN Traditional oil-based stains provide the ultimate in control and offer superior color retention. Their user-friendly open time allows for uniform color development and consistent results.
WATER-BORNE WOOD STAIN Water-borne stains offer great convenience with the ease of soap and water clean up and low odors. Water-borne wood stains also offer faster dry times - often drying to the touch in only 30- 60 minutes.
Defining Character
TEST THE COLOR BEFORE YOU BEGIN
On Pine
The true beauty of Wood Stain is that the ultimate appearance is so greatly influenced by the wood to
On Oak
which it is applied. The color in the can is only the beginning to unlocking wood’s hidden character. Be sure to test the stain color to verify the desired appearance before you begin. Test by applying a
On Ash
small amount to an extra piece of wood or in an inconspicuous area of your project. Wood samples above are stained with our color Burnt Cherry.
A WORD ABOUT SOFTWOODS... When staining softwoods such as pine, birch or fir, we strongly recommend the use of Cabot Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner. A pre-stain conditioner will help to achieve uniform penetration of wood stains. Designed to stabilize uneven grain, wood conditioner eliminates blotchy color and inconsistent coverage. Apply enough Conditioner to wet surface then allow it to soak in for 2 to 5 minutes. Remove any excess with a clean cloth prior to staining. Be sure to condition only an area that can be stained within 30 minutes.
A p p l y i n g t h e Wo o d S t a i n Stir the wood stain thoroughly before and occasionally while using. If you’re using multiple containers, blend them together to ensure consistent color. Apply stain liberally with a high-quality brush or soft, lint-free cloth. Then allow the stain to stand for 2 - 6 minutes depending on depth of color desired. The appearance and color of the stain will vary depending upon the wood’s porosity and the length of time the stain is allowed to penetrate before excess stain is wiped away. Remove any excess stain and then work the pigment into the grain by rubbing with a cloth using a circular motion. The final wiping of the surface should be in the direction of the grain to achieve maximum uniformity. For deeper or darker color development, repeat application. Once the desired appearance has been achieved, be sure to allow the stain to dry thoroughly.
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P ROT E C T
Protective Finishes for Lasting Durability Today’s advanced topcoats can help protect the wood surface from scratches, spills and U.V. damage. Applying a protective clear finish will allow you to maintain the beauty of your woodworking project for years to come.
B e f o r e Yo u F i n i s h . . . Sanding Sealer is an essential pre-treatment for ensuring beautiful results when sanding interior wood surfaces in preparation for finishing.
QUICK-DRY SANDING SEALER Specially formulated to provide an optimal base coat for polyurethane or varnish. This ultra-fast drying sealer aids in the sanding process by creating a hard, workable surface that assists sandpapers to run smoothly, efficiently and gum-free.
WATER-BORNE SANDING SEALER Specifically formulated to seal interior wood surfaces with an innovative technology that provides a lowodor clear finish that cleans-up with soap and water. It sands easily without gumming the sandpaper and dries quickly to allow multiple applications in one day. Ideal for use as a base coat for both or water-based and alkyd polyurethanes and varnishes.
Choosing the OIL-BASED POLYURETHANE Oil-based polyurethane is the standard for beauty and performance by which other urethane products are measured. Formulated with durable resins that yield remarkable hardness, these polyurethanes resist moisture and stand up against marring, scuffing and wear in high-use areas. Interior oil-based polyurethane is ideal for furniture, floors, trim and cabinets.
WATER-BORNE POLYURETHANE Water-borne polyurethane is designed to combine durability and the ease of use, dry-time and cleanup convenience of a water-based system. The result is a clear finish that is formulated using acrylic resins. This polyurethane is non-yellowing and both heat and chemical resistant. This finish is a convenient choice for protecting furniture, floors, trim and cabinets.
Right Finish VARNISH Varnish is an oil-based topcoat that enriches fine wood surfaces. It provides a beautiful finish that protects against minor nicks, scratches, spills and stains. Varnish is an ideal choice for fine interior wood surfaces including doors, furniture and cabinets.
BRUSHING LACQUER Brushing Lacquer is a clear finish that provides ultimate smooth, glass-like protection. This traditional, clear topcoat offers superior leveling and the convenience of an ultra-fast dry time that helps to minimize the accumulation of dust or other surface contaminants in the finish.
Applying the Finish
Once you’ve determined the best possible topcoat for your specific project, be sure to follow these application tips for maximum results. Stir thoroughly before and occasionally while using. Do not shake clear finishes. If using multiple containers, be sure to blend them together to ensure consistency. Apply the finish using a highquality brush in the direction of the wood grain. To avoid creating bubbles in the finish, do not scrape the side of the container after dipping your brush into the can. Be sure to always maintain a wet edge in order to avoid lap marks. If multiple coats are going to be applied, allow the finish to dry thoroughly before recoating. Between coats, sand with fine sandpaper and wipe with tack cloth to remove all sanding dust and surface contaminants. Never use steel wool when working with a water-borne finish. Avoid creating airborne dust after applying final coat. Allow the finish coat to dry thoroughly.
Whether you’re an experienced craftsman or a woodworking enthusiast, Cabot premium woodcare products will provide beautiful and lasting results. Now sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful results for years to come.
Š 2006 Samuel Cabot Incorporated #190.6205060.000
Samuel Cabot Incorporated 100 Hale Street, Newbur ypor t, Massachusetts 01950 (800) US-STAIN www.cabotstain.com