Replies

1. 
   _mj_ | May 01, 2024 09:09pm | #1

   I use cheesecloth dampened with the finish I'm using on the project and allowed to semi-dry to be tacky, but not squishy.

2. 
   sparkyII | May 01, 2024 11:01pm | #2

   I purchase my tack cloth through amazon.( cannot remember the manufacture ) but I wipe the stained surface VERY lightly before a varnish coat just to remove any dust. rub with scotch pads between coats of wiping varnish and then tack rag- never had a problem with the finish. usually 3 coats of finish

3. 
   CharlieFurnituremaker | May 02, 2024 03:16am | #3

   If you're afraid of tack rags, wait until you hear about this thing called wood dust.

   The ones from Home Depot are nothing less than brilliant. They work great, and always have. I've never had one second of trouble with a finish, paint, or anything coming in behind a big-box tack rag.

   Imagine what could go right, instead of wrong.

4. 
   rob_ss | May 02, 2024 06:15am | #4

   I've never used one. I like the idea but never seem to get round to obtaining any. I wipe down with a rag and DNA.
   Not saying that's best, but it works for me.
   Since moving primarily to using Osmo, dust has not been an issue anyway.

5. 
   john_c2 | May 02, 2024 06:24am | #5

   I've never used a tack rag. I've never understood the use for them. Never even been tempted.

6. 
   elmaduro | May 02, 2024 12:38pm | #6

   Never used them. I use compressed air and a DNA wipedown. The DNA will also reveal any missed glue spots.

7. 
   _JF1_ | May 02, 2024 11:27pm | #7

   I use the HDX tack rags on nearly every project. They work very well for me. Depending on the wood I may also use denatured alcohol or mineral spirits to clear out the pores. I’ll even use compressed air but only in extreme cases. Eventually I’ll get condensation in the line and that little bit of water isn’t clean. The compressor was my preferred method until I blew a fair bit of rusty water onto a well sanded, large panel.

8. 
   joeleonetti | May 08, 2024 07:05pm | #8

   I've used the big box store ones from time to time and they seemed fine and didn't cause me any problems. Mostly I just use my shop vac to such the surface clean on the wood keeping the nozzle close to the surface before I finish and that works fine. I don't have an air compressor.

9. 
   curmudgeon | May 09, 2024 03:14pm | #9

   For years, I used the method _mj_ discusses. A couple of years ago, I read somewhere about using microfiber toweling (rags). I've had great luck with them, and, as a bonus they're washable and so re-usable.