How to Keep Wood Stain From Running
- 1). Sand finished wood with 120-grit sandpaper to promote absorption and prevent excess runs. Sand along with the wood grain until the finish appears dull. Skip this step if the wood is unfinished.
- 2). Wipe sawdust from the wood, using tack cloths.
- 3). Protect surfaces adjacent to the wood from drips, runs and splatters by meticulously covering them with painter's tape and plastic dropcloths.
- 4). Open the can of stain. Stir the contents for three full minutes, using a wooden stir stick. Pour 1/2 gallon into a 1-gallon plastic painter's pot.
- 5). Coat the wood surface with wood stain, using a paintbrush manufactured for use with oil paints. Apply a thin layer of stain to prevent excessive runs.
- 6). Wipe the wet stain from smooth wood surfaces, using clean, cloth rags. Skip this step if you're working on rough, exterior wood surfaces. Wait two hours. Apply a second coat for darker results. Wash your paintbrush with mineral spirits.
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