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How do you go about the polyurethane finish?
Polyurethane comes in both solvent based, and water based.
Personally, I think the solvent based is best, and I personally use Minwax, since it can be found at Wal-mart and most any hardware store.
It also comes in Gloss, Satin finish, and Flat.
I use the Satin finish which has a nice low luster shine, but not the hard mirror shine of the Gloss type.
I thin the poly with mineral spirits, "about" 3%.
This increases penetration and makes the poly brush easier and without brush marks.
After sanding the wood, simply brush on a medium coat with a GOOD quality brush. Cheap brushes make a crappy looking finish.
Allow the first coat to dry for the recommended time, then either sand lightly with fine paper or use a coarse synthetic polishing pad to lightly roughen and smooth the surface.
Brush on another coat, dry and lightly sand or buff again.
Then apply a final coat, which you don't sand or buff.
"Usually" three coats is all that's needed.
Allow to cure for at least 24 hours before assembling, and I allow 4 or 5 days to reach full hardness before heavy use.
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