Minwax Wood Finish?

[Tumdace]

Im building 2x2x4 enclosure and I want to stain and seal it, but Im a wood noob.

Do I stain it first then seal it? How many coats of each?

Can I use the Minwax Wood Finish as a stain and then a water based polyeurathane as a seal? Is that safe to use?

I was thinking this: http://www.lowes.ca/interior-stains/minwax-quart-english-chestnut-stain_g1194577.html

Like I said Im a woodworking newbie, so any suggestions are much appreciated. I know how to drill holes and screw in screws, but as far as stains and seals go im lost, especially when it comes to the safety of an animal I would be putting in it.

 

[DakotaB]

Yes stain then seal. With the stain do as many coats as it takes to get the shade that you want. I usually just do 2 just to make sure everything gets covered with no streaks.

Now on the sealant. The more coats you do is always better. Typically 3-5. The sealer is only toxic when it is wet. Once it has completely dried you should be no problems with it.


Also when staining use a cheap bristle brush and not one of the sponge brushes or a paper towel. The bristle brush allows better penetration with the stain and brings out a better color.

 

[Tumdace]

Yes stain then seal. With the stain do as many coats as it takes to get the shade that you want. I usually just do 2 just to make sure everything gets covered with no streaks.

Now on the sealant. The more coats you do is always better. Typically 3-5. The sealer is only toxic when it is wet. Once it has completely dried you should be no problems with it.


Also when staining use a cheap bristle brush and not one of the sponge brushes or a paper towel. The bristle brush allows better penetration with the stain and brings out a better color.

What seal can I use with the minwax? Any water based polyurethane?

 

[DakotaB]

What seal can I use with the minwax? Any water based polyurethane?

Yeah any brand will do. Miniwax also has a full line of finishes. You'll just have to decide on either Satin, Semi-Gloss, or Full Gloss.

 

[Tumdace]

If I get the Minwax Wood finish, do I still need a sealant? It says it stains and seals in one?

 

[Tumdace]

And does it have to be water based? Can I use the fast drying polyurethane? I thought I read somewhere on this forum that once it dries its no longer toxic.

 

[melble68]

I would stain to desired color, and then seal. The combo products won't turn out as good, and normally are used to save time. TAKE YOUR TIME. Between coats of sealer, lightly sand w/ a fine grit sand paper. Sanding between coats of sealer will knock down any dust or debris, and eventually give you an incredible final product. Wipe clean with a tack cloth (you'll find tack cloth at the hardware store), and repeat. Follow the drying time recommendations and longer if possible. The more coats the better. 5 would be great.

 

[Tumdace]

Any stains recommended over any others? I wasnt sure if the Minwax wood finish was good as just a stain and then seal it afterwards as well or if I should go with something thats just a stain?

 

[melble68]

Minwax is one of those major players. Go w/ stain only, and sealer only. IMHO