jdinteg

Minwax wipe-on Poly is a great product I have used many times for needing something reasonably priced, and readily available at your local hardware or box store. But, I prefer the more difficult to find General Finishes Arm-R-Seal (Green can). I find it to have a great build up, and a beautiful final product. I first apply 1-coat of General Finishes Seal-A-Cell (Red can), then apply 2-coats of Arm-R-Seal with a disposable sponge brush and clean cloth. Next I use 0000 steel wool between each coat after, and usually stop around 5-coats. I wait a minimum of 4-hours depending on the humidity and temperature. I have never been disappointed with the results, ease of application, little mess, or years of durability. Best of all I really like the ease of touch-up if an accidental scratch or damage occurs. Tough to achieve with spraying products.

I am getting ready to use shellac for the first time on a project, with a can I have had sitting for at least 3-years unopened. This is perfect timing for me. I did not realize the shelf life issue, and would have assumed that it was supposed to be brown. Thank you all for the invaluable info.