I'm working on a freestanding slat wall for my studio apartment, but I have a challenge—there's nowhere safe to leave the wood overnight due to theft risks. I'm considering a fast-acting water-based stain that claims to cure in just one hour. Will it really look as good as a regular water-based stain? If I leave it outside for about 8 hours before applying a water-based polyurethane, is that enough time? I'm curious if that "1 hour cure" claim is legit or just marketing hype. Any insights or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!
1 Answer
Most water-based stains do dry pretty quickly, but keep in mind that things like temperature and humidity can affect the process. Don't get fooled by flashy claims! It’s best to apply your stain on a warm, sunny day. Just wipe it on and then off after a few minutes, letting it sit for about 30 minutes before repeating until you reach the desired color. As for the polyurethane, that takes longer to dry, so using a spray version with light coats and sanding in between (like with 220 or 320 grit) helps. After you're done, let it sit against a wall in your studio near a window for a week or so to fully cure the poly.
Thanks a ton for this advice! So if I see a stain saying it cures in an hour, that’s generally trustworthy? And about the sanding and spraying for the polyurethane, do you think it's necessary for a wall divider? Since it won’t face as much moisture as, say, a side table, is it still worth it to seal the stain?