Applying a stain and a protective top coat like polyurethane is usually a two-step process. First, a stain is applied to the wood. The pigment in the stain soaks in and adds color to the wood. Then a finish, like polyurethane, is applied to seal and protect the wood.

Is there a stain and poly in one?

Minwax PolyShades combines stain and polyurethane in one simple step. Each coat provides rich color and lasting protection while enhancing the wood grain.

Is PolyShades a gel stain?

What Stain Product Did You Use? We used Minwax Polyshades for this project, which is similar to a gel stain. Unlike traditional wood stains, which have to soak into the wood to work, a PolyShades coat or gel stain product sits on top of the existing stain, much like a paint application would.

Do I need to sand before polyurethane?

You don’t need to sand after staining before applying polyurethane. You only need to allow enough time for the stain to dry before applying polyurethane.

What happens if you don’t sand between coats of polyurethane?

For some types of poly, nothing happens if you don’t sand between coats of polyurethane. However, most polyurethane will not adhere properly if you skip sanding dust nibs and brush marks on the finish. The polyurethane finish will eventually peel off or become deformed.

How many coats of polyurethane do I need?

For best results, apply at least two coats of polyurethane. When working on floors, tables, chairs, and furniture that will be used often, apply at least three coats. If you are using water-based polyurethane, you can apply up to four or five coats on floors and sheds.

Can Minwax PolyShades be applied with a rag?

I apply all stains, including Polyshades, with a rag. Many people use brushes and the instructions even say to brush on stain and then wipe off the excess with a rag; but after years of experimenting, I’ve found the best and easiest way to apply any type of stain is with rag.

Do you have to sand before using PolyShades?

Sand the surface of your wood-finished object lightly with sandpaper. Doing so will create an adhesive surface that is more receptive to the PolyShades finish. Remove all sanding dust from the surface of the object. Be sure that the surface is entirely dry before proceeding.

How soon can you Poly over stain?

In general, you should wait between 24-48 hours for the stain to dry before polyurethane. If you don’t want to take any chances or think the stain might not be dry enough, wait an extra day before applying poly.

Can you apply stain and poly with a rag?

You can use any tool – rag, brush, paint pad, roller or spray gun – to apply the stain. You can even dip the object into stain or pour the stain onto the wood and spread it around. It’s only important that you wipe off all the excess before the stain dries.

How long does PolyShades take to dry?

Allow the Polyshades® to dry for 6 hours between coats. Be sure to stir the can thoroughly before you use it, and again occasionally during use. Apply the product with a good quality, natural bristle brush, and move the brush in the direction of the wood’s grain.

Is Minwax PolyShades oil or water based?

POLYSHADES WOOD STAIN – Minwax PolyShades is an oil-based wood stain and poly in one. It enhances wood grain by combining beautiful, rich color and long-lasting polyurethane protection in one easy step.