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1. 
   tom_sather | Jan 31, 2000 03:03am | #1

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   I've found that the best finish for your cabinets is polyurethane varnish. It's tough, water resistant, and pretty easy to apply if you're using a brush. The trick is to not try to get too much on at a time 'cause it will sag like oil based paint. Also rubbing out will take some patience as this finish is much tougher than traditional varnish or nitrocellulose and brushing lacquer. Use a satin rather than high gloss - it's easier to work with in the rubbing out stage.

   I use a application technique I call modified padding. I brush on a layer of finish then I immediately wipe most of it off (the surface looks just damp). I use Walmart - atuomotive section- blue shop towels for this step. This eliminates the "bubble problem" encountered with polyurethane and tends to level out the membrane. Allow it to thoroughly dry - at least 12 hours under ideal conditions. Lightly rub with 000 steel wool. Repeat the process at least four times - or more should you want a greater build up. Rub the final coat with 0000 steel wool. You're done. Now wasn't that easy!

   I use Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane Varnish. They recommend a 4 hour drying time but I wait at least 12. Varathane (sp?) polyurthane varnish, made by Flecto Co., also works well. It seems to be a little tougher but takes considerably longer to set dust free and dry.

   If you run into "dust spects" in this finishing technique, it's most likely due to not getting all the sanding dust off of the surface before apply the finish. That's assuming you're not apply your finish in a hay loft or beside an operating table saw.

   By the way, the easiest way to determine whether it's maple or birch is to check for pit/medulary rays. In Birch they're small but visible, especially on end grain.

   Further question? Drop me an e-mail.