Samuel Cabot Incorporated Interior Finishing Guide

Comple t e Guide to

INTERIOR FINISHING

O v e r a C e n t u r y o f Wo o d c a r e

Since inventing our very first wood

stain in 1877, Cabot has been specifically

dedicated to preserving the beauty of wood.

Today, Cabot offers a comprehensive

family of woodcare products that

have been specifically formulated

to work together as a system. The

result is a complete collection of

premium-quality products that

add beauty and protection to

virtually any interior project.

M a k e s B e a u t i f u l R e s u l t s E a s y

Proper surface preparation is the key to a successful project.Begin by thoroughly sanding the surface with progressivelyfiner grades of sandpaper. Applying a wood conditionerprior to staining softwoods will help develop a more evenand uniform color. Start with Cabot for a great finish.

Cabot’s premium Wood Stain enhances the natural beautyof wood while developing rich colors that accentuatewood grain. Available in both oil-based and water-borneformulas, Cabot Wood Stains are user-friendly and allowfor even color development for beautiful results. Choosefrom the warm wood tones of our ready-mix color paletteor the expanded selection of our custom-tinted colors.

Cabot offers a collection of clear finishes that offer superiorclarity and lasting durability. Whether you choose oil orwater-borne polyurethane, varnish, or brushing lacquer,you’ll find superior quality in every can. Plus, with threesheens to choose from, you’ll develop a finish that willprotect your project for years to come.

STEP1P R E PA R E

STEP2STA I N

STEP3P RO T E C T

SANDING

The first step towards professional results is proper

sanding. Be sure to use only high-quality sandpaper

and always sand in the direction of the wood grain.

Begin with coarser sandpaper with a lower grit such

as 120 and then use progressively finer sandpaper

towards 200 or 220 grit. Remember, the higher

the number, the finer the grit and the smoother

the finish. To improve results, always clear sanding

dust between steps.

CLEANING

Once the sanding is complete, be sure to remove

all sanding dust. For larger areas, begin with a

vacuum. Finish by removing all sanding and dust

particles by wiping completely with a tack cloth.

STEP1P R E PA R EA G o o d S t a r t f o r a G r e a t F i n i s h

STEP2STA I NE n h a n c i n g Wo o d ’ s N a t u r a l B e a u t y

The right stain can accentuate and highlight the natural grain

and add beauty to any woodworking project. Wood stain can

help blend the appearance of different pieces of wood

or even different wood species.

To ensure the best possible results,

begin by choosing the right

stain for your project.

OIL-BASED WOOD STAIN

Traditional oil-based stains provide the

ultimate in control and offer superior color

retention. Their user-friendly open time

allows for uniform color development and

consistent results.

WATER-BORNE WOOD STAIN

Water-borne stains offer great convenience

with the ease of soap and water clean up

and low odors. Water-borne wood stains

also offer faster dry times - often drying to

the touch in only 30- 60 minutes.

C h o o s i n g t h e R i g h t S t a i n

TEST THE COLOR

BEFORE YOU BEGIN

The true beauty of Wood Stain is that the ultimate

appearance is so greatly influenced by the wood to

which it is applied. The color in the can is only the

beginning to unlocking wood’s hidden character.

Be sure to test the stain color to verify the desired

appearance before you begin. Test by applying a

small amount to an extra piece of wood or in an

inconspicuous area of your project.

A WORD ABOUT SOFTWOODS...

When staining softwoods such as pine, birch or fir, we strongly recommend the use

of Cabot Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner. A pre-stain conditioner will help to achieve

uniform penetration of wood stains. Designed to stabilize uneven grain, wood

conditioner eliminates blotchy color and inconsistent coverage. Apply enough

Conditioner to wet surface then allow it to soak in for 2 to 5 minutes. Remove any excess with a clean

cloth prior to staining. Be sure to condition only an area that can be stained within 30 minutes.

On Pine

On Oak

On Ash

Wood samples above are stained with our color Burnt Cherry.

D e f i n i n g C h a r a c t e r

Stir the wood stain thoroughly before and occasionally while using. If you’re

using multiple containers, blend them together to ensure consistent color.

Apply stain liberally with a high-quality brush or soft, lint-free cloth. Then

allow the stain to stand for 2 - 6 minutes depending on depth of color desired.

The appearance and color of the stain will vary depending upon the wood’s

porosity and the length of time the stain is allowed to penetrate before excess

stain is wiped away. Remove any excess stain and then work the pigment into

the grain by rubbing with a cloth

using a circular motion. The final

wiping of the surface should be in

the direction of the grain to

achieve maximum uniformity.

For deeper or darker color

development, repeat application.

Once the desired appearance has

been achieved, be sure to allow

the stain to dry thoroughly.

A p p l y i n g t h e Wo o d S t a i n

STEP3P RO T E C T

Today’s advanced topcoats can help protect the wood surface from

scratches, spills and U.V. damage.

Applying a protective clear finish will allow you to

maintain the beauty of your woodworking

project for years to come.

P r o t e c t i v e F i n i s h e s f o r L a s t i n g D u r a b i l i t y

B e f o r e Yo u F i n i s h . . .

QUICK-DRY SANDING SEALER

Specially formulated to provide an optimal base coat

for polyurethane or varnish. This ultra-fast drying

sealer aids in the sanding process by creating a hard,

workable surface that assists sandpapers to run

smoothly, efficiently and gum-free.

WATER-BORNE SANDING SEALER

Specifically formulated to seal interior wood surfaces

with an innovative technology that provides a low-

odor clear finish that cleans-up with soap and water.

It sands easily without gumming the sandpaper and

dries quickly to allow multiple applications in one day.

Ideal for use as a base coat for both or water-based

and alkyd polyurethanes and varnishes.

Sanding Sealer is an essential pre-treatment for ensuring beautiful

results when sanding interior wood surfaces in preparation for finishing.

OIL-BASED POLYURETHANE

Oil-based polyurethane is the standard for beauty and

performance by which other urethane products are

measured. Formulated with durable resins that yield

remarkable hardness, these polyurethanes resist

moisture and stand up against marring, scuffing

and wear in high-use areas. Interior oil-based

polyurethane is ideal for furniture, floors, trim

and cabinets.

WATER-BORNE POLYURETHANE

Water-borne polyurethane is designed to combine

durability and the ease of use, dry-time and clean-

up convenience of a water-based system. The result

is a clear finish that is formulated using acrylic

resins. This polyurethane is non-yellowing and

both heat and chemical resistant. This finish is a

convenient choice for protecting furniture, floors,

trim and cabinets.

C h o o s i n g t h e

VARNISH

Varnish is an oil-based topcoat that enriches fine

wood surfaces. It provides a beautiful finish that

protects against minor nicks, scratches, spills and

stains. Varnish is an ideal choice for fine interior

wood surfaces including doors, furniture and cabinets.

BRUSHING LACQUER

Brushing Lacquer is a clear finish that provides

ultimate smooth, glass-like protection. This

traditional, clear topcoat offers superior leveling

and the convenience of an ultra-fast dry time

that helps to minimize the accumulation of dust

or other surface contaminants in the finish.

R i g h t F i n i s h

A p p l y i n g t h e F i n i s h

Once you’ve determined the best possible topcoat

for your specific project, be sure to follow these

application tips for maximum results.

Stir thoroughly before and occasionally while using.

Do not shake clear finishes. If using multiple

containers, be sure to blend them together to

ensure consistency. Apply the finish using a high-

quality brush in the direction of the wood grain.

To avoid creating bubbles in the finish, do not

scrape the side of the container after dipping your brush into the can. Be sure to always

maintain a wet edge in order to avoid lap marks. If multiple coats are going to be applied,

allow the finish to dry thoroughly before recoating. Between coats, sand with fine

sandpaper and wipe with tack cloth to remove all sanding dust and surface contaminants.

Never use steel wool when working with a water-borne finish. Avoid creating

airborne dust after applying final coat. Allow the finish coat to dry thoroughly.

Whether you’re an experiencedcraftsman or a woodworkingenthusiast, Cabot premium woodcare products will provide beautiful and lasting results.

Now sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful results for years to come.

Samuel Cabot Incorporated100 Hale Street, Newburyport, Massachusetts 01950

(800) US-STAINwww.cabotstain.com

© 2006 Sam

uel Cabot Incorporated #190.6205060.000