1 week between stain and top coat ok?

Hi All, normally I have the time to stain and finish in quick succession, but i really have been struggling to find the time lately.

I think I'll be able to do the finally sanding and staining this weekend, and if weather is permitting apply the final finish next weekend.

Is it ok to leave a piece with only stain for a week or will the extended time gap cause problems?

I'll be applying Wattyl stains and spraying pre-cat lacquer as a top coat.



thanks
Joe

Hi Joe, I don't see any problem with that myself. Might be an idea to sheet it over with dust sheets once the stain is dry to prevent too much dust settling on it. I usually give it a final wipe over anyway before applying a finish.
Excellent work by the way :2tsup::2tsup:

I wouldn't leave the piece unsealed for a single moment after the stain had dried... if the stain was water or meths-based. A careless handprint, a splashed drink, condensation drips, or any other moisture could spoil the whole thing for you.

Agree with both of the above. I'd recommend finishing the stain as soon as possible while giving it proper protection against dust and moisture in between stages.