Storage Bag Keeps Finishes Fresh

Many woodworkers know this story. You buy a can of finish, open it, and use it for the first time. When you’re done, you close up the canister and put it on a shelf. You use it off and on during the year, but there comes a time when you open the container and the finish is no longer usable because it has oxidized, thickened, or skinned over. I’ve thrown out plenty of half-filled cans of finish because of this. Well, not any more. The StopLossBag is a bladder made from pliable plastic that has an airtight screw cap. After pouring in the finish (with the help of a funnel and an included tube), you squeeze out the air and screw on the cap. I’ve had some Waterlox stored in one of the bags for six months, and it’s just as fresh now as it was the day I opened the can. That’s impressive, and I’ll definitely use StopLossBags to store my finishes from here on out.

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

3M Blue Tape

One of the most versatile accessories to have in the shop: from layout to seaming veneer. It has enough stretch to pull joints together.

Buy at Amazon

Osmo Polyx-Oil

"If I had to choose one of these hard-wax oils to keep on hand, it would be Osmo Polyx-Oil. It’s relatively affordable and very easy to apply." -Adam Godet

Buy at Heartwood Tools Buy at Amazon

Compass

An essential tool for drawing circles and curves accurately. Also good for layout.

Buy at Amazon