Old Masters
Old Masters is known for its’ fine wood stains and finishes. These products are available for retail among independent hardware, paint and specialty woodworking locations. The company stands behind professional and woodworking enthusiasts alike. Offering exceptional protection for lasting craftsmanship. Small Town Origins Situated in the midst of rural America, Iowa is home to Old Masters. This family-owned company has been providing quality products since 1926. Founded by a Dutch immigrant, the company’s origins began by creating paint formulations in a garage and next began selling to numerous industries. The company mission is simple, to deliver a quality solution that exceeds client expectations. This tradition is alive and well today. Old Masters Brand Old Masters creates its finishes and stains in a traditional artisan manner. The wood-finishing products are designed for celebrating the talent and skill of a master craftsperson. Preserve your cherished woodcraft into timeless, lasting pieces. We are committed to this philosophy and belief with our company tag line, “Craftsman Quality Finishes.” Rely on Old Masters Topcoat Choosing and applying an adequate topcoat is an excellent way to offer durable, long-lasting protection. Protect your project from surface abrasions, damage from alcohol or water, chipping and marring by using a clear topcoat finish. UV protection is offered in our exterior finishes. Protect against the elements and exposure to wind, water and Mother Nature. Proper topcoat choice is vital since every clear finish is formulated uniquely to benefit specific applications. The Gel Polyurethane is a great option for antiques and furniture finishes; however, this product would perform poorly as a flooring product. Read each label clearly to discover which item will best suit your project. Check out Old Masters’ clear finish selection guide to help you decide on the best topcoat for your application. Maintain lasting beauty on your exterior and interior finishes by taking care of the surfaces. Mother Nature is constantly offering wear and tear. It is recommended to reapply outdoor exterior clear finishes every 2 years; although, items that are continuously in the sunshine may require an annual coating for the ultimate protection. Applying Topcoat for Ultimate Protection The final step for most wood finishing and staining projects is applying a protective, clear topcoat. Ensure you are working in an area with excellent ventilation. Use a damp rag to clean the surface and remove any dust. Thoroughly stir the product before and during the application process but Do Not Shake. Projects that need more than one container are recommended to combine contenders and mix to create a uniform gloss before application. Try the finish on a hidden surface location beforehand to check for adequate adhesion. Do not apply in windy locations or direct sunlight. Avoid using tack rags when working with clear, water-based finishes. Follow these steps when applying a regular clear finish to correctly prepared wood: 1. Apply with 2-inch to a 2-and-a-half-inch China bristle brush. 2. Avoid creating bubbles by applying in even, light coats. Follow the direction of the grain with minimum brushing to avoid a sheer finish. Avoid thick coats as this can lead to wrinkles and drips upon drying. 3. Let the finish dry. Check the label for drying time estimates. Times will vary depending on the clear finish. 4. Use 220 grit sandpaper to lightly sand between coats. This delivers better adhesion and a finer finish. Allow extended drying time in the event the sandpaper gums up. Take sanding dust away for a clear finish. 5. Reapply product and read label instructions regarding recoating times. A minimum of 2 coats is recommended for interior applications. Three coats are best for exterior applications. Each product has unique instructions and detailed label information. 6. Let product rest for 24 hours minimum before exposing surfaces to minimal use. Take extra care the first week after application to allow the product to cure to its hardest ability. Avoid heavy traffic on floor applications. Wait a minimum of 72 hours after the last coat to replace furniture. Never slide the furniture when moving it. Wait at least one week before cleaning the floors or installing rugs. Helpful, Handy Hints Try using a firm-bristled artists’ brush to remove any lint prior to the finish drying. Ensure your work area is free from dust before finishing to help keep the finish spot-free. Only apply products in well-ventilated areas due to the abundance of vapors that is part of solvent-based products.