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So, I stupidly applied some polyurethane to my project without reading the instructions on the can. After it was dry several hours later, I finally read the instructions, and to my horror, I saw it said something like this:

Let sit for 30 minutes, then wipe off with lint-free reg. Do not let the finish dry without wiping it off.

So, erm, now what do I do? Did I ruin my project (it still looks perfectly fine..)? Why does it need to be wiped off, and what are the consequences if I don't!?

BlueRaja - Danny Pflughoeft
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1 Answers1

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There's a chance you were using wiping varnish or a "tung oil finish" (not really tung oil). It's basically thinned down poly that can be left on in a thick coat, or the excess can be wiped off after a coat is applied.

The warning to not let the finish dry without wiping is probably good advice to eliminate the possibility of runs and drips.

Popular Woodworking has a good article on the history of wiping varnish.

Doresoom
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