Old Masters is known for its wood coatings and stain products. You will discover this brand at independent hardware stores, paint distribution stores and specialized woodworking shops. The company stands behind professionals and woodworking fanatics alike. Offering exceptional protection for enduring craftsmanship.



Small Town Origins

The business is from Iowa. Since 1926, the company has been creating high-quality merchandise. Founded by a Dutch immigrant, the company’s origins began by developing paint formulations in a garage and next began selling to numerous industries. The company mission is to deliver a quality item that exceeds the client’s expectations. This was the first company mission that stands today.

Old Masters Brand

Old Masters relies on a traditional artisan notion to develop its stains and finishes. These products are meant to seal, protect and commemorate the knowledge and natural talent of master craftspeople.Preserve your beloved woodcraft into eternal, lasting pieces. We are committed to this philosophy and notion with our company tagline, “Craftsman Quality Finishes.”

Rely on Old Masters Topcoat

Applying a specific topcoat is the best way to generate long-lasting, durable protection for your adored woodwork. Don’t make it possible for water or alcohol damage, surface abrasions or chipping, or marring to wreak havoc on your wood project. Employ a clear topcoat finish to keep items protected from daily wear and tear. UV protection is provided in our exterior finishes. These types of finishes help keep your merchandise safe from water, Nature Herself, the wind and all of the weather.

Proper topcoat options are vital since each clear finish is designed uniquely to benefit certain applications. The Gel Polyurethane is an excellent option for collectibles and furniture finishes; however, this product would operate poorly as a flooring solution. Research and read the product labels to make sure you select the proper finish. There is a clear finish selection guide to help you determine which top coat will best suit your needs.



Maintain long-term beauty on your exterior and interior finishes by taking care of the surfaces. Mother Nature will constantly challenge your exterior finishes. It is recommended to reapply outdoor exterior clear finishes every 24 months; although, items that are continuously in the sunshine may need an annual coating for the greatest protection.

Protect With a Topcoat

The very last thing you need to do to offer your woodcraft total protection is to finish off with a final clear topcoat.


Make sure the location is well ventilated. Clear away any dust or debris from the object using a clean rag. Lightly stir the product with care before using but don’t shake it or you'll produce air bubbles. More substantial projects requiring additional stain containers really should be mixed beforehand to ensure the solutions are uniform before applying. Test the finish on a undetected location to see if adequate adhesion is occurring. Do not apply in windy locations or direct sunlight. Avoid employing clear, water-based finishes with tack rags because you will get fuzz and debris in your finish.

We recommend taking the following steps when applying a clear finish to prepared wood:

1. Utilize a 2-inch or 2.5 inches China bristle brush for best results.

2. Light-weight, even coats can help you avoid having bubbles within your finish. Always continue with the grain direction and use minimum brush strokes to establish a smooth finish. Avoid thick layers as this can lead to wrinkles and drips upon drying.

3. Permit the finish to dry thoroughly. Every product is different so check the packaging for drying times. The time ranges depending on the type of finish you are using.

4. Delicately sand your item with 220 grit sandpaper between finish coats for proper adhesion. This delivers better adhesion and a finer finish. Give yourself extra drying time in case the sandpaper becomes gummy. Remove any sanding dust between coats to ensure a clear finish.

5. Read the label to determine how much product to reapply and how long to wait between coats. A two-coat minimum is typically suitable for interior finishing. Exterior projects generally use three coats of finish for the ultimate protection. Every product has unique details on the label so read them thoroughly.



6. Let the product rest for 24 hours at least before subjecting surfaces to marginal use. Take extra care the first week after applying to allow the product to cure to its toughest ability. Mark off surface applications from heavy traffic. Give it at least three days or 72 hours following the last coat to place furniture back in place. Never slide the furniture when transferring it. Allow the flooring to cure for a minimum of one week before installing rugs or cleaning them.

Tips For the Best Application

Try using a firm-bristled artists’ brush to remove any lint prior to the finish drying.

Clean your workspace first to guarantee it is dust-free before you start the finishing process to achieve a spot-free result. Avoid using solvent-based finishes in areas that don’t have suitable ventilation as they are full of harmful vapours.