subject: How to Prepare Wood Surface for Water based interior finish [print this page] Finishing highlights the beauty of wood, but the process also magnifies imperfections. Sand the wood smooth and repair all defects before finishing.
To produce smooth surfaces, always sand with the grain of the wood. The material should go through at least three sandings with successively finer grit sandpaper. Start with 80 grit, move to 150 grit and finish with 220 grit. Use a tack cloth to remove dust between sandings.
Raise the grain in the wood by rubbing it lightly with a damp cloth. Allow the wood to dry, and sand the raised grain smooth with 400 or higher grit sandpaper. Use a tack cloth to remove any sanding dust.
Use a quality sanding sealer to counter the effects of large pores and wavey grain patterns. Wood is a natural material with pores and grain patterns that accept stains at different rates. Even in the same board, shifts in grain patterns can cause blotching. Blotching occurs when larger pores or wavy grain patterns absorb too much stain and appear much darker than the surrounding material. Apply a light coat of sanding sealer with a rag or soft bristled brush. Allow the sealer to dryaccording to the manufacturer's instructions. Rub the wood with synthetic steel wool to smooth the surface. Apply another light coat of sanding sealer, and allow it to dry.
Inspect the material for small nicks or imperfections. Rub out any rough spots with synthetic steel wool. Wipe the material with a clean tack cloth to remove any dust.
PS ;Always apply finishing materials in a well ventilated area. Wear eye protection and rubber gloves to prevent exposure to finishing materials.
How to Prepare Wood Surface for Water based interior finish
