- 1). Seal the wood counter before applying the polyurethane. Create your own sealant by mixing one part mineral spirits with two parts polyurethane in a can or glass jar. After pouring the ingredients into a jar, gently mix them with a wood stirring stick. Apply the mixture to your counters with a paint brush, using long even strokes in the direction of the wood grain.
- 2). Allow the seal to dry completely, but no more than 24 hours.
- 3). Dip a paint brush into undiluted polyurethane and use long, even strokes to apply it to the counters. Overlap each stroke slightly with the last to avoid missing any spots. Always work in the direction of the wood grain.
- 4). Look for drips and blend them into the surface with your paint brush.
- 5). Let the polyurethane dry per the manufacturer's instructions, around 24 hours, and then add another coat.
- 6). Examine the countertops for any polyurethane drips or spots where dust may have settled in the polyurethane. If you find such an imperfection, carefully cut it away by sliding a razor blade along the surface just under the drip.
- 7). Sand away minor imperfections that cannot be cut off with wet 400-grain sandpaper. Work in a circular motion and do not press too hard into the surface as you don't want to remove your newly applied finish entirely.
- 8). Polish the wood if you use sandpaper on the surface. Wait at least 48 hours after the last coat of polyurethane and wipe on automotive polishing compound in a circular motion using a soft cloth.
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