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Honestly I see wood finishing as the baking of cooking. I love cooking but I hate baking. I love woodworking but I cross my fingers when finishing. You recommend a 50/50 mix but I've also read that a 1/3 and a 1/3 and a 1/3 Poly and Mineral Spirts and Boiled Linseed Oil is the way to go. If you see this and have the time to respond with your thoughts I'd really appreciate it. I know you are very busy of course.
I ask because I am using a refinish without stripping, die to the nature of the project, and since it has lots of details and vertical surfaces, I won't be able to brush it on to anything but the very top.
Such a good, informative video. I have just used the technique and the result is so much better than that which I have achieved in the past by following the manufacturer's directions. Your presentation style is excellent. Many, many thanks.....
Hello Stumpy Nubs! As a Hungarian the “mineral spirit” is a bit confusing for me… What do you call mineral spirit? Denatured alcohol, acetone or turpentine or petroleum or what exactly?
Just a quick tip…hopefully one that hasn’t been discussed here. When a matte or satin finish is desired, and you apply multiple coats, due to the additives that make it satin, it can make the wood grain look cloudy or less than the clear look you want. So if you use a gloss poly for the first 4 or 5 thin coats, then only use the satin for the last coat or two…you still get the clarity you desire, but with the satin or matte finish you desire. Try it..amazing.
I can see the benefit (less cloudy) of applying 50-50 coats of gloss poly and finishing with the 50-50 satin poly. Makes me wonder if Built up coats of regular wipe on Satin poly equates with an inferior (cloudier) finish.
I Have been using this method for 30 years and it works well. use 50/50 for first 2 coats and about 2/3 mineral spirits to 1/3 poly for remaining coats, [maybe 4 more]. On last coat I use the 50/50 heavy and use 1200 grit paper to sand then wipe it off and its a great finish. James thanks again for your tips. An old man like me likes the way you present every subject you discuss. Keep'em coming Jimmy my boy.
@@carlosttc2786 I would not. Not being a chemist, I was told long ago that mineral spirits does not have an adverse reaction to oil based poly. Hope that helps and good luck.
@@onetym282 It depends on temp and humidity. Higher temps with low humidity will mean faster drying. you should be able to tell by touch, or using a lint free cloth to wipe, and see if it's still tacky.
This was a great video! I really like these short and informative segments. You have a very method of conveying a topic in a thorough and very concise manner. Thank you again for providing us with this content and knowlede.
Thank you for the easy to follow directions and instructions, but more importantly the “why” behind them. Very informative for those of us who don’t do this type of thing on a regular basis. 👍🏼
Water based wipe on poly: I've used it on White Oak, when I wanted the original white oak color to shine through. Regular poly and other oil based finishes made it too yellow. So it was either $1million for White tinted Rubio Monocoat, or thinned water based poly, wiped on, as I didn't want the thick film that it normally leaves :)
This is an amazingly good description of wipe on poly, when and why you use it, and how to make it. Every question I had about wipe on poly was answered and more.
Simple, clear language, to the point and loaded with useful informatiion. Thank you so much. Also for having the first advertisement I was actually happy to listen to (and will look in to) and for not begging for subscribers, simply asking .
I found the jointer blades for my old jet jj 6 ! So glad you have a link to them. And the prices are much better than other places online I was looking
Thank you for the explanation. I was introduced to this application some 25+ years ago by an old furniture maker. It was great seeing an expert using the same process I not only swear by, but introduce to other folks. I actually have a video up with a close explanation. Thank you again
Thank you, finishing my first piece, my dining room table. I was so nervous about putting on the poly, you gave me the info I needed clearly. Thanks again.
You, sir, just made my day with this video. Couldnt find a way to get rid of streaks with a brush and still a lot of product left... trying it tomorrow for sure. Thanks a lot!
Very timely. I’ve seen this method used before, but not explained. I appreciate your attention to details when showing a new method. Will be trying it out this weekend. Thanks for another great tip!
This video was so timely. I was about to order a new can of wipe on poly last night, but decided to wait. Your video popped up in my feed and I’m so glad it did. I will make my own wipe on poly going forward. Thanks for the great videos and tips.
As a hobbyist woodworker, I watch so many of these videos, and I have to say this video (and your channel overall) is so well done-on topic, clear, and so succinctly explained. Thank you!
Thank you so much, have been using wipe-on poly for years on my projects and always wondered if I could make it myself? Using different ratios and sanding methods were also great tips, thanks again!
Thanks for this video. I made my husband a black walnut floating desk and it turned out so well and I don't want to ruin it with a bad finish. I always come to your videos if I need very accurate information. :)
Just a quick thanks to Stumpy as this video has completely changed how I finish projects now. I have completed 2 items since this came out and used a diluted poly on each with great results. I used to brush on my finish but was never thrilled with trying to keep out brush marks and dust. Now I'm applying 6-8 very thin coats and ending up with a great satin finish that still shows the texture of the wood. Thank you!
Isn’t James terrific?! This short video was full of good info. Just this morning I finished up a small bench, and had applied two coats of the Wipe-On Poly. I’m a (serious) hobbyist carpenter, and I’m always looking for info on how to improve my workmanship. WOP is like my “go to” finish, because it is so easy to use, and gives me consistent and good results. I started off with shellac, but I never seemed to be really successful with it, never quite got a professional looking finish. A hardware sales guy suggested WOP, and I’ve used it ever since. But now, I think JH has just bumped up my finishing skills a small notch with this video. Thanks James!!
So great! I wanted to get the wipe on but live in Spain and could only find it in the US with shipping added to the already high price. This video is a godsend! Thank you!
I thinned the poly for a long time, but I finally discovered you can use a disposable microfiber cloth and wipe it on, and the finish looks the same. If you prefer putting on a large number of really thin coats, go ahead and thin it. But don't have to. The regular stuff will wipe on just fine. Note: I have never, ever found a way to brush on poly without it having bubbles. But a wipe-on finish doesn't bubble.
I recently learned that a wipe-on poly can be used to fill in the cracks and gaps left when making box joints. I simply loved your RUclips on making your own wipe-on poly. This will save me lots of time and money. I will definitely try this. Your advise is wonderful and for a newbie like myself, I appreciative it. Thanks Stumpy Nubs.
I am an absolute beginner and this was perfect. I just bought a can of Wacom wipe on. This video was direct while being engaging. I look forward to watching more. :)
Oh yay, I love it. Dust on the surface has been an issue for me. I've tried a variety of things to avoid it, but this one is by far the best. Thank you very much.
I'm really glad you posted this. I was just recently watching something else where they used wipe on stain and poly, but did not go into detail as to why and what the benefits are. The video you posted was way more informational. Thanks for putting this together.
Good info! I’ve used wipe-on poly before, but not in a long time, so this is a great refresher course. Also just recently came across your channel and am thoroughly enjoying it. Good explanations, but no rants, rambling, or fluff. Thanks, and keep up the good work!
Good advice! As a side note i've used the water base to do marblizing & making various tints of basic latex colors. You can also add a small amount to latex paint for high traffic areas to make it more scrubable.
So intuitive and clearly illustrated. All points, from plastic water bottle sanding and filling in pores, to final paper bag. The wipe-on is so expensive. Thank you ....
Yes. I’m making door liners for my Vanagon. I’m using 1/8” Baltic Birch and was going to spray them. I will use wipe on poly instead to avoid contamination. Thanks for the video. I always enjoy your tutorials and tricks. Keep up the good work. I hope your hand is doing good.😎😎😎👍👍👍
Great tips & none of the nauseous 3min of bullsh1t intros. This was v informative, directly to the point and v helpful.... reat stuff, I think we have a winner. Deffo a subscribe
Thank you. I have used wipe on poly for year. Done buying the premixed. I usually do several coats of wipe on and finish with the regular poly. Some really good tips here
Wish I'd seen this before watching numerous guitar channels on "how to do a wipe on finish on a guitar body". Not one mentioned the "thin it yourself method", which is ideal for the purpose. Many thanks and blessings.
I used a 60/40 poly/solvent mix & 6 coats rubbed on a butcher block counter followed by 2 coats of paste wax. So very happy with this style of finishing.
Hi James! Very useful video for me. I've seen clips of people using google wipe on poly but it seems that all those who say "then finish with wipe on poly" assume the viewer is familiar with the product and its use. Will be giving this a go on my next project. Thanks always for sharing, I look forward to every video, although I'm usually many episodes behind. Cheers from BC and please stay safe!
Thanks so much man! I love the explanation. I've been using water based poly on everything. Brushing on with even a foam brush, it dries too fast leaving incredibly prominent brush marks. I've sanded, stained, and refinished the table top I'm currently working with, 5 entire times. No matter how careful I am with it, it doesn't come out well at all. I'm going to go make a mixture with some oil base and hopefully have a much better time.
James, Thanks for this tutorial. I am mostly a wood turner and have been using a similar mix. I use 100% PURE tung oil, mineral spirits, and poly. All in equal parts. Great stuff.
Very interesting, I understand exactly what you said in this video, and look forward to trying to mix my own polly then using the rub on method of applying, thank you for this tip!
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Honestly I see wood finishing as the baking of cooking. I love cooking but I hate baking. I love woodworking but I cross my fingers when finishing. You recommend a 50/50 mix but I've also read that a 1/3 and a 1/3 and a 1/3 Poly and Mineral Spirts and Boiled Linseed Oil is the way to go. If you see this and have the time to respond with your thoughts I'd really appreciate it. I know you are very busy of course.
Can I ask - is this method also safe to use for stain and poly 2 in 1? It's oil based minwax brand their two in one stain and finish.
I ask because I am using a refinish without stripping, die to the nature of the project, and since it has lots of details and vertical surfaces, I won't be able to brush it on to anything but the very top.
Such a good, informative video.
I have just used the technique and the result is so much better than that which I have achieved in the past by following the manufacturer's directions.
Your presentation style is excellent.
Many, many thanks.....
Hello Stumpy Nubs! As a Hungarian the “mineral spirit” is a bit confusing for me… What do you call mineral spirit? Denatured alcohol, acetone or turpentine or petroleum or what exactly?
Just a quick tip…hopefully one that hasn’t been discussed here. When a matte or satin finish is desired, and you apply multiple coats, due to the additives that make it satin, it can make the wood grain look cloudy or less than the clear look you want. So if you use a gloss poly for the first 4 or 5 thin coats, then only use the satin for the last coat or two…you still get the clarity you desire, but with the satin or matte finish you desire. Try it..amazing.
I can see the benefit (less cloudy) of applying 50-50 coats of gloss poly and finishing with the 50-50 satin poly. Makes me wonder if Built up coats of regular wipe on Satin poly equates with an inferior (cloudier) finish.
D'oh! No I know why my desk top developed a slight haze - five brushed coats of satin poly. :(
Thanks for making us all a little smarter.
@@GarrisonFallhey man, it still looks like a desk you put a lot of love and time in to. Every finished piece is a work of art that you made.
Informative and to the point. Thank you for not making a 20 minute video about this topic.
And for not trying to tell us all how great you are too. You let your work, examples, and teaching talk for you.
Agreed
A wood workshop to die for. Sometimes I stop the video just to gaze at the background and be inspired!
That one spot is killing my ocd , lol...
He got it on the next wipe :)
Yes! I wanted to reach into the screen and wipe it. XD
It was killing me too!!!! Lololol
How many others were yelling "You missed a spot" at the screen?
Me too (am I'm an Aspie).
Solid, informative, and to the point. It's why I keep coming back for more of your videos.
Thanks! Helpful and succinct. This is the way all tutorials ought to be!
Great ideas and always clearly presented. Thanks, Stumpy Nubs!
Thank you for all the helpful info. You are a consistent resource for building up my knowledge base. Keep it up!
everything i look for in a video. short, to the point and no filler/ rambling! love your videos stumpy!
This video is FANTASTIC! That you for this. It is very helpful! 👍🏼
Best channel out there. Ton of info in a perfectly short amount of time.
Excellent...great advice and tips. Thank you for your clear, well explained and rational tutorials and vids.
I Have been using this method for 30 years and it works well. use 50/50 for first 2 coats and about 2/3 mineral spirits to 1/3 poly for remaining coats, [maybe 4 more]. On last coat I use the 50/50 heavy and use 1200 grit paper to sand then wipe it off and its a great finish.
James thanks again for your tips. An old man like me likes the way you present every
subject you discuss. Keep'em coming Jimmy my boy.
nice to hear from old timers about their methods. thank you William.
I am new to wood working, Can I use Denatured alcohol instead of Mineral spirits?
@@carlosttc2786 I would not. Not being a chemist, I was told long ago that mineral spirits does not have an adverse reaction to oil based poly. Hope that helps and good luck.
@@onetym282 It depends on temp and humidity. Higher temps with low humidity will mean faster drying. you should be able to tell by touch, or using a lint free cloth to wipe, and see if it's still tacky.
What's the best kind of cloth to use to apply the wipe on poly?
I always learn something new!! Thanks for the good information that I will use.
Thanks James, this video answered a lot of questions I had.
I've saved lots of money using your tips. Thanks!
Great article. Very educational and clearly presented. Nicely done.
Your videos are the very best of them all. Thanks!
Excellent timing on this one; just got a gorgeous unfinished door, so you pretty much answered all of my questions.
Thank you. I hope to spend more time woodworking and apply the advice you give.
Excellent video. Direct to the point and well explained.
Wow! Where have you been all my life! I am forever changed! Thank you!!
This was a great video! I really like these short and informative segments. You have a very method of conveying a topic in a thorough and very concise manner. Thank you again for providing us with this content and knowlede.
Thank you for the easy to follow directions and instructions, but more importantly the “why” behind them. Very informative for those of us who don’t do this type of thing on a regular basis. 👍🏼
Very well explained, great tips, and to the point. Thank you for explaining the poly mineral spirits relationship!
Water based wipe on poly: I've used it on White Oak, when I wanted the original white oak color to shine through. Regular poly and other oil based finishes made it too yellow. So it was either $1million for White tinted Rubio Monocoat, or thinned water based poly, wiped on, as I didn't want the thick film that it normally leaves :)
Was waiting 4 this to come, wanted to hear it from the expert, u deserve a cold one my friend👌🇧🇿
This is an amazingly good description of wipe on poly, when and why you use it, and how to make it. Every question I had about wipe on poly was answered and more.
All right, buddy. I have watched a ton of your videos. Subscribed with all notifications. Your advice is sound.
Thank you for your working effort to pass along a good tradesmen advice from your experiences. This one is much appreciated. God bless!!
Simple, clear language, to the point and loaded with useful informatiion. Thank you so much. Also for having the first advertisement I was actually happy to listen to (and will look in to) and for not begging for subscribers, simply asking .
I found the jointer blades for my old jet jj 6 ! So glad you have a link to them. And the prices are much better than other places online I was looking
Thanks! This was exactly the type of solution I needed for my particular project!
Excellent presentation with good advice. Thanks.
As a beginner looking to learn more, thank you so so much for this content!
Thanks for several good tips in 5 minutes! Brown paper bag in particular.
Hey! I saw something similar in one of Mike Farington's videos, it's how he likes to finish shop projects. Thanks for explaining in detail!
Awesome video. I learned so much. I’m finishing my pine farmhouse table and it’s starting to look 👍
Thank you for the explanation. I was introduced to this application some 25+ years ago by an old furniture maker. It was great seeing an expert using the same process I not only swear by, but introduce to other folks. I actually have a video up with a close explanation. Thank you again
Thank you, finishing my first piece, my dining room table. I was so nervous about putting on the poly, you gave me the info I needed clearly. Thanks again.
Very useful content and well explained...thanks for posting!
You, sir, just made my day with this video. Couldnt find a way to get rid of streaks with a brush and still a lot of product left... trying it tomorrow for sure. Thanks a lot!
Love using this technique. Thanks dude! The brown paper bag is such a nice trick!!!
Very helpful, I’m ready to graduate to making my own. Thank you!
Very timely. I’ve seen this method used before, but not explained. I appreciate your attention to details when showing a new method. Will be trying it out this weekend. Thanks for another great tip!
Very concise and informative. Thank you!
Woooooooooooow! Neat trick! Love poly but have always had issues with the sagging. I'm going to try this! Thanks!
This video was so timely. I was about to order a new can of wipe on poly last night, but decided to wait. Your video popped up in my feed and I’m so glad it did. I will make my own wipe on poly going forward. Thanks for the great videos and tips.
I need some wipe-on poly for a project I'm working on today and thought, "Stumpy Nubs did a video about this!" Thanks again, James!
As a hobbyist woodworker, I watch so many of these videos, and I have to say this video (and your channel overall) is so well done-on topic, clear, and so succinctly explained. Thank you!
Thank you so much, have been using wipe-on poly for years on my projects and always wondered if I could make it myself? Using different ratios and sanding methods were also great tips, thanks again!
Very helpful. I use a lot of polyurethane in my garage “workshop”. Thanks James
Thanks for this video. I made my husband a black walnut floating desk and it turned out so well and I don't want to ruin it with a bad finish. I always come to your videos if I need very accurate information. :)
Thanks for another great video James! 👍
Just a quick thanks to Stumpy as this video has completely changed how I finish projects now. I have completed 2 items since this came out and used a diluted poly on each with great results. I used to brush on my finish but was never thrilled with trying to keep out brush marks and dust. Now I'm applying 6-8 very thin coats and ending up with a great satin finish that still shows the texture of the wood. Thank you!
I tried using poly years ago , and was unhappy , moved to oil, shellac and shine juice . Now I might have to revisit poly
This was particularly useful. Thanks.
Thank you for a great tutorial. Learned something new today.
Makes sense. I like easy and cheap. BTW - Bought jointer knives from My Woodcutters. Great experience. Thanks for recommending them.
I love this channel. So useful thankyou for the videos
Very cool - thanks for the tips and in depth explanation.
Isn’t James terrific?! This short video was full of good info. Just this morning I finished up a small bench, and had applied two coats of the Wipe-On Poly. I’m a (serious) hobbyist carpenter, and I’m always looking for info on how to improve my workmanship. WOP is like my “go to” finish, because it is so easy to use, and gives me consistent and good results. I started off with shellac, but I never seemed to be really successful with it, never quite got a professional looking finish. A hardware sales guy suggested WOP, and I’ve used it ever since. But now, I think JH has just bumped up my finishing skills a small notch with this video. Thanks James!!
So great! I wanted to get the wipe on but live in Spain and could only find it in the US with shipping added to the already high price. This video is a godsend! Thank you!
I thinned the poly for a long time, but I finally discovered you can use a disposable microfiber cloth and wipe it on, and the finish looks the same. If you prefer putting on a large number of really thin coats, go ahead and thin it. But don't have to. The regular stuff will wipe on just fine.
Note: I have never, ever found a way to brush on poly without it having bubbles. But a wipe-on finish doesn't bubble.
I recently learned that a wipe-on poly can be used to fill in the cracks and gaps left when making box joints. I simply loved your RUclips on making your own wipe-on poly. This will save me lots of time and money. I will definitely try this. Your advise is wonderful and for a newbie like myself, I appreciative it. Thanks Stumpy Nubs.
I am an absolute beginner and this was perfect. I just bought a can of Wacom wipe on. This video was direct while being engaging. I look forward to watching more. :)
Thank you for the great tip. I will definitely try this!
Oh yay, I love it. Dust on the surface has been an issue for me. I've tried a variety of things to avoid it, but this one is by far the best. Thank you very much.
I'm really glad you posted this. I was just recently watching something else where they used wipe on stain and poly, but did not go into detail as to why and what the benefits are. The video you posted was way more informational. Thanks for putting this together.
Good info! I’ve used wipe-on poly before, but not in a long time, so this is a great refresher course. Also just recently came across your channel and am thoroughly enjoying it. Good explanations, but no rants, rambling, or fluff. Thanks, and keep up the good work!
Oh, he's had his small rants.
But he's Canadian .......... it's hard to tell. LOL 🤣
man you just the best in your field, thanks from malaysia!
I am a beginner who loves DIY. I am refinishing a table top and this is what I am going to follow. Thank you for sharing.
Good advice!
As a side note i've used the water base to do marblizing & making various tints of basic latex colors. You can also add a small amount to latex paint for high traffic areas to make it more scrubable.
So intuitive and clearly illustrated. All points, from plastic water bottle sanding and filling in pores, to final paper bag. The wipe-on is so expensive. Thank you ....
Good presentation. Makes me want to try thinning and wiping polyurethane on my next baltic birch shop project just to get a feel for it. Thanks.
You just made my life so much easier. Thank you
as always very helpful informative video, thank you
Yes. I’m making door liners for my Vanagon. I’m using 1/8” Baltic Birch and was going to spray them. I will use wipe on poly instead to avoid contamination. Thanks for the video. I always enjoy your tutorials and tricks. Keep up the good work. I hope your hand is doing good.😎😎😎👍👍👍
Great tips & none of the nauseous 3min of bullsh1t intros. This was v informative, directly to the point and v helpful.... reat stuff, I think we have a winner. Deffo a subscribe
This video is so appreciated. Will use the brown paper bag with I had no idea about.
Thank you. I have used wipe on poly for year. Done buying the premixed. I usually do several coats of wipe on and finish with the regular poly. Some really good tips here
Thanks for this - solves a few problems!
Wish I'd seen this before watching numerous guitar channels on "how to do a wipe on finish on a guitar body". Not one mentioned the "thin it yourself method", which is ideal for the purpose.
Many thanks and blessings.
Thanks for clearing that up, well done!!
I used a 60/40 poly/solvent mix & 6 coats rubbed on a butcher block counter followed by 2 coats of paste wax. So very happy with this style of finishing.
Thanks for the great finish tip !
Very helpful. Thank you so much.
Excellent video. Thank you.
Hi James! Very useful video for me. I've seen clips of people using google wipe on poly but it seems that all those who say "then finish with wipe on poly" assume the viewer is familiar with the product and its use. Will be giving this a go on my next project. Thanks always for sharing, I look forward to every video, although I'm usually many episodes behind. Cheers from BC and please stay safe!
Nice to know. I have done most finishes and was thinking of using wipe on for the next project.
Great tips here. Thank you!
Thanks so much man! I love the explanation. I've been using water based poly on everything. Brushing on with even a foam brush, it dries too fast leaving incredibly prominent brush marks. I've sanded, stained, and refinished the table top I'm currently working with, 5 entire times. No matter how careful I am with it, it doesn't come out well at all. I'm going to go make a mixture with some oil base and hopefully have a much better time.
James, Thanks for this tutorial. I am mostly a wood turner and have been using a similar mix. I use 100% PURE tung oil, mineral spirits, and poly. All in equal parts. Great stuff.
Literally exactly what I needed, perfect thanks
Thank you! I was going to order some wiping poly but s&h was $61.00. Then I saw your video. Saved me money right off.
thank you for some excellent ideas to take my poly finishes to a higher level, seriously
Very interesting, I understand exactly what you said in this video, and look forward to trying to mix my own polly then using the rub on method of applying, thank you for this tip!
I wish I had watched this yesterday! ;) Great explanation.
This video saved me a lot of money and after trying Arm-R-Seal and Shellac, this is the best method and good looking finish of them all.
Arm-R-Seal is a wiping poly. It should have works for you in the same way that this did.
Another great and informative video.