Spray poly left lines, HELP

We built the hutch for the cabin collection and decided to use a satin spray polyurethane over flat paint. You can see the streaks from the application.  The wood feels like it was only a very light coat that went on. Like I wouldn't have even known there was any poly on it if I didn't know already. What do we do? Do we need to sand the whole thing? Would a heavier coat with a brush make it even out?

Tsu Dho Nimh

Thu, 03/31/2011 - 18:37

Spray finish is hard to do, and usually requires multiple coats. You didn't get heavy enough coverage, so you see the thin and thick areas.

Wipe on a coat or two of satin finish such as General Finishes satin wiping finish or MinWax clear wipe-on finish.

No sanding required.

tncraftsman

Thu, 03/31/2011 - 20:00

Often times you need to "finish" the finish.  I don't know of any topcoat that sprays perfect each time.  The trick to a great looking top coat is to do it in layers.  I know high end cabinet makers who will put 7 layers of topcoat on a piece!

If it feels like you have a light coat and feels like rough sandpaper then you applied the top correctly.

I would lightly sand with a 320 grit sandpaper and reapply a light spraying of topcoat.  It might take multiple applications to get the result you want.  I recommend a sanding sponge.  Mirka brand sanding sponge is the best IMO but not sure if the box stores carries them.

I've had good results with Minwax waterbased polyacrylic.  It dries fast, self leveling and easy cleanup.

claydowling

Sat, 04/02/2011 - 14:11

I'll second that recommendation for polyacrylic finishes.  Minwax is the most commonly available but any water-based polyurethane works well that way.  I finished a pair of book cases that way ten years ago, and they still look great.