I'm using wiped-on Waterlox Sealer/Finish to finish mahagony and okoume ply. First timer, following advice from Woodcraft salesperson and Waterlox how-to guide. Goal is smooth (not necessarily mirror) finish with high durability.
I've applied four coats with good, but still far from perfect results. I'd appreciate advice how to make the right choices to complete the project.
Current status: Surfaces are well covered with generally consistent low sheen (but much less consistent on the ply with raked lighting). On touch, surface has developed occasional "grittiness" when you rub your hand across -- even though the underlying surface is smooth.
Current technique: No sanding between coats, Applying liberally with wiping cloth (1 overlapping stroke with grain) and minutes later lightly wiping with folded cloth to even out application. Dry 24 hours between coats. No initial grain filling -- wanted natural look.
Questions:
1. Sanding: obviously necessary: grit? technique? how often?
2. Remaining coats: Keep current technique? How many coats?
3. Anything I've missed?
Thanks, as always, to this forum for helping me along. As a rookie, need all the advice I can get.
Ken