I used some Minwax wipe-on satin-finish poly on the top of a mahogany bureau using a paper towel to apply. I have used this can and application method many times in the recent past successfully, but often without sanding between layers. After reading about the necessity of sanding to give the surface some tooth for the new layer to adhere to, I followed the Minwax instructions. I had a problem.
- I wiped on a layer of Minwax wipe-on poly after dying (TransTint with water as solvent), sanding (to knock down the grain), and staining (Zar oil-based, almost a gel) the mahogany top.
- After 3 hours (about 70-75 degrees) I dry sanded very lightly (1-2 light drags back and forth) with 220 wet/dry paper.
- I wiped on a second coat.
- After 20 hours I dry sanded very lightly (2-3 light drags back and forth) using same paper and block as above.
- The finish became cloudy. The second subsequent layer I wiped on (no sanding in-between) pretty much eliminated/covered the cloudiness.
What did I do wrong? THANKS
PS The sand paper shown is the sand paper used. The build-up of finish is from this piece - I figured it would decrease the abrasiveness if it had any effect at all. This paper has been used only on this piece (I am just doing the top).