Hey everyone! I'm currently building a shoe rack from a tutorial video, making a few adjustments along the way. I've completed all the cuts and prep work, and drilled my pocket holes, but I'm stuck on whether I should finish the wood now or wait until after I put it all together. My design mainly uses pocket holes and glue for the shelves, with screws on the sides for the outer walls, which I'll cover with cut dowels. I've also cut out the top portion for the doors and the flat surface, as well as the coat section.
The original tutorial used a stain, but I'm opting for a wood sealer followed by a clear polyurethane. What do you all think is the best approach: finish everything and then assemble, or assemble first and finish afterward? Here's the video if you want to check it out: https://youtu.be/rsNBgzcpGQA?si=Z0mMJAD6_n5Festh. Thanks a lot!
1 Answer
It sounds like you've got a solid plan! Just be cautious with that wood sealer you're using. Usually, it's best not to apply any finish where you'll be gluing joints since they need to bond well. Taping off edges that need glue is a smart move! That way, you can finish before assembly without worrying about accidentally sealing those joints. It could save you a lot of hassle later!
That’s a great point! I hadn't thought about the taping. I'll definitely give that a try!