By Matt Shields
Wood species such as White Oak have a lot of open pores that can make varnishing a hassle. Many woodworkers will reach for pore filler, but the colors often don't match.
The solution? Avoid it altogether. Perform some wet-sanding, as described in the video, to fill the pores with dust from the same piece of wood.
It also makes it super smooth.
Required items:
- Waterlox Original Sealer/Finish
- 400 grit Wet/Dry Sandpaper
- Anything with flat surface
- Vacuum and/or Tack Cloth
- Protective equipment (gloves, respirator, ventilated area, etc)
Here's how I do it:
1. Sand to 220grit.
2. Vacuum and Tack Cloth to remove dust
3a. Apply liberal 1st Coat of Waterlox with brush
3b. Wet-sand with 400grit wet/dry paper. Wipe clean with lint-free shop towel. Wait 48 hours
4a. Dry sand with 400 grit paper. Vacuum and Tack Cloth to remove dust.
4b. Apply 2nd coat of Waterlox with brush or lint-free rag.
4c. Wet-sand with 400 grit paper. Wipe clean with rag. Wait 48 hours
5. Repeat 4a thru 4c until desired finish is achieved.