Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Stains and Finishes

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Expert: - 7/1/2009


Question
Am I to understand that you cannot apply a lacquer or polyurethane over a oil based stain You can only apply a paste wax? If so, then I need to apply a water based stain for the lacquer or polyurethane finish?

Answer
Hi Robert
Nice to hear from you.
You have a lot of mis-information here Robert.
You certainly can apply lacquer or poly over oil based stain. In fact thats the norm.
You can also use poly and lacquer over waterbased stain although I personally don't do that as I dislike waterbased stains.
As far as paste wax goes, I do not consider that a finish in any sense.
Wax can be applied OVER poly or lacquer if you choose. And it will definitely help preserve both these finishes over time.
I never apply wax over fresh poly or lacquer though.
Robert this can be confusing I know but its really not once you get a grasp on it.
Great Question
Regards
Eileen

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Eileen Cronk

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Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.

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I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.

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