Before staining a new woodworking project or refinishing a piece of furniture, you want to make sure you can detect any defects, such as sanding swirl marks or scratches.
In a cup, add a few ounces of mineral spirits and then pour in several drops of the wood stain.
Dip a clean cloth in the stain and wipe it onto the wood. Any defects will become clearly visible.
Let the pre-stain dry for a few minutes, then sand it again, paying particular attention to the area where you saw the flaws.
4 COMMENTS
If I don’t find any marks do I sand it again? I am just wondering if I apply wood conditioner before I do this test in case no marks where found and I don’t have to sand again. If I do have to sand again no matter what I found I guess I would wait until after I sanded again.
If I don’t find any marks do I sand it again? I am just wondering if I apply wood conditioner before I do this test in case no marks where found and I don’t have to sand again. If I do have to sand again no matter what I found I guess I would wait until after I sanded again.
Hi, Rich! This video shows the process from beginning to end: https://todayshomeowner.com/video/find-wood-imperfections-with-mineral-spirits/
Just follow Joe’s advice for the best results. 🙂
A simple Thank you isn’t enough characters. I need to use 60. So Thanks again.
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