Stain then poly, or stain with poly, or something else entirely?

Post date: 2019-04-13 04:53:30
Views: 277
I am about to embark on a large project to restore old trim around windows and doors, while also staining/finishing and installing new baseboard trim. I was hoping to find a stain/finishing product that will work for both applications, however, I now think I need to approach each differently. I need some advice before moving forward.

I have found a tinted oil-based urethane (Minwax Polyshades), a tinted water-based urethane (Varathane Stain+Poly) and a good clear water-based urethane (Varathane). In testing on the old trim that I want to restore, a light sanding, then an application or two of the clear Varathane seems to make the most improvement with the least amount of hassle. However, since the new baseboard trim is unfinished and it needs to closely match the existing trim, it needs color. So, I tried both the Minwax and Varathane poly-stain products, after sealing the sanded trim with a pre-stain conditioner.

I wasn't overly impressed with the results. These products dry a bit rough and need sanding between coats, which makes it harder to get a rich color with a smooth surface. If I need to sand and baby it, then I might as well just stain then finish the wood in two steps. So, what would be the best way for me to approach this? What is a good, easy to use stain (preferably rag-on application) and what would be a good durable finish (clear urethane, lacquer, varnish)? Any tips at all on getting good results would be welcome, as I don't have a lot of experience in finishing wood.

Thanks for your expertise!
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