Expert: Eileen Cronk - 11/19/2009

Question
QUESTION: I am ready to stain and coat my maple kitchen table.  I am looking for a satin finish that is tough, clear, and resists heat and water.  I want to be able to use the table and not worry about it.  Also, what stain would you recommend?  



ANSWER: Hi Denise
Nice to hear from you.
I will tell you exactly what I have on my maple top kitchen table.
Its tough, clear, resists heat and water. My family uses the table for three meals a day and I never use a cloth or place mats on it.
My grandaughters craft, cut, color glue and play and spill on it too LOL.
I have 3 coats of "Minwax oil based fast drying poly in satin sheen" on it.
I used Minwax oil based stain before applying the poly. I let the stain dry overnight.
Both these products are readily available at any hardware store.
The correct brush for the poly is a must. Expect to pay at least ten dollars for a good brush.
Make sure you verify with the sales clerk the correct brush.
Do not apply the poly in a cold room or it won't flow properly. Also too hot a room is not good.
So between 65 and 75 degrees is great. The poly will do what its suppossed to LOL.
You will not be disappointed in this finish.
Regards
Eileen



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Your answer makes me very excited to get started.  I feel more comfortable trying your recommendation since you have done it yourself and the poly has stood the test of time.  This is exactly what I was wanting.

One more question, did you have trouble with the poly dripping off the edge?

Answer
Hi again Denise
You are so right LOL. Poly always drips off the edge.
So heres what you do.
Get a clean rag in one hand.
Then after you do half of the top, take your bare finger and run it around under the edge. Wipe on the rag as you go.
Solves the problem. A bit unusual but it works.
Good Luck
Eileen