Expert: Eileen Cronk - 7/16/2009

Question
Hi Eileen,
Thanks for your answer! Update. . . I gave the 26 yr. old oak dining table a
little wipe down with mineral spirits after 3 coats of Minwax, (which you had
said wasn't necessary). At the time, I noticed some faint small whiter areas.
They seemed to be gone after an hour or two. I wiped down with a tack cloth.
Even then, a small amount of color came off. I thought that was good, and
went ahead and rubbed on the Minwax poly. (Yes, kinder to hands, thanks!)
But now, I am not totally happy with the color. It is ever so slightly not as rich
as before, with the Minwax. I'm taking a leap . . . is there a way, now, that I
can give it even one coat of the stain? If I rubbed down the poly first? Just
asking. Can I mix a bit of stain with the poly? Again, just asking. Thanks so
much! Phawnda

Answer
Hi Phawnda
Although I don't usually use the colored poly's, I think in this case its in order.
And I think you are a pretty smart cookie to suggest stain in the poly because thats basically what this product is.
But get a small can of the real stuff as it will be a proper formula.
Heres the link
http://www.minwax.com/products/one_step_stain_and_finishes/polyshades.html

Give the table top a very light scuff with 180 paper before applying.
Phawnda, I'm not sure if this comes in wipe on so check that out.
Eileen