Image: a finished bench top made with Rubio Monocoat
If you’re looking to achieve a stunning finish on your wooden furniture, look no further than Rubio Monocoat. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to use Rubio Monocoat and discover the easy steps involved in creating a beautiful, polished look. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or just starting out, Rubio Monocoat is an excellent choice for finishing your furniture pieces.
Before we dive into the process, it’s important to note that Rubio Monocoat recommends sanding the piece with no finer than 180 grit. This will ensure that the surface is ready to absorb and hold the stain. After sanding, be sure to wipe down the piece with mineral spirits to remove any dust or debris.
Once you’ve prepared the piece, it’s time to open your cans of Rubio Monocoat. The mixture consists of one part hardener and three parts stain. It’s crucial to have the cans open before you can proceed. If you prefer to measure the mixture using spoons, it’s best to keep those spoons in your workshop to avoid any cross-contamination with your kitchen utensils.
Now it’s time to apply the stain to the surface. Rubio Monocoat doesn’t require you to worry about leaving hard lines, so you have the freedom to pour the mixture onto the surface in a snake-like pattern. To spread the stain evenly, use a plastic spreader. This process is highly satisfying as you watch the wood transform with the rich, dark brown color of the stain.
While the plastic spreader works well for most surfaces, occasionally, it may leave small gaps. In such cases, it’s best to switch to wiping the stain on with a cloth. This will ensure that every nook and cranny is covered.
After the first coat is applied, you may notice that the surface appears rough. But don’t worry, this is completely normal. To achieve a smooth finish, it’s essential to wipe off all the excess stain with a clean rag once the stain has had a chance to set for five to ten minutes. This process will remove any smudges or marks and reveal a beautiful, polished surface.
Image: A before and after comparison of a bench top after wiping off the excess stain
To ensure a flawless finish, it’s recommended to go over the surface with a clean towel after the initial wipe down. This step will remove any additional residue and create a flawless, professional result. Don’t skip this step if you want a truly stunning finish.
Rubio Monocoat requires approximately seven days to cure fully. However, after one to two days, you can apply the maintenance oil for an added sheen. Before doing so, it’s important to note a warning from Rubio Monocoat: the rags or materials used to buff the stain can spontaneously combust if not properly handled. Make sure to soak them in water or dispose of them safely.
To achieve that extra pop and shine, apply Rubio Monocoat’s maintenance oil using a plastic spreader. Spread it across the surface, making sure to buff it in with a clean buffing pad. This will give the piece an added sheen and enhance the overall appearance.
Image: The finished bench top with a beautiful, polished appearance
It’s important to note that Rubio Monocoat’s maintenance oil doesn’t require any mixing. A little goes a long way, and it’s an investment worth making for the exceptional results it delivers. After applying the maintenance oil, allow it to set for about 10 to 15 minutes before buffing off the excess with a clean pad. This final step will add the finishing touch to your piece, leaving it looking flawless and professional.
After the final buffing, allow the piece to dry and cure fully for approximately one week. Once it’s fully dry, you’ll be amazed at the stunning, smooth finish achieved with Rubio Monocoat.
In conclusion, Rubio Monocoat is an excellent choice for finishing your wooden furniture pieces. Despite the higher price tag compared to other stains, the ease of use and exceptional results make it well worth the investment. With just one coat of Rubio Monocoat’s stain, followed by the maintenance oil, you can achieve a professional finish that will make any piece of furniture stand out.
Give Rubio Monocoat a try on your next woodworking project, and experience the beauty and simplicity of this incredible finishing technique. Don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. And as always, stay tuned for more woodworking tips and tricks from MMCC_Woodshop.
