Old Masters is recognized for its’ fine wood stains and finishes. These products are available for sale among individual hardware, paint and specialty woodworking venues. The company supports professionals and carpentry devotees alike. Providing exceptional coverage for sustained craftsmanship.



Small Town Origins

Situated in the middle of rural America, Iowa houses Old Masters. Since 1926, the organization has been producing high-quality items. A Dutch immigrant initiated the business. Their humble beginnings started out creating paint formulations in a garage. Eventually, they started selling products across a variety of industries. Going above client expectations with high-quality solutions is what the organization is founded on. This was the first company mission that stands today.

Old Masters Brand

Old Masters creates its finishes and stains in a standard artisan manner. These products are meant to seal, protect and commemorate the skill and experience of master craftspeople.Create timeless woodworking pieces by safeguarding them with “Craftsman Quality Finishes.” The Old Masters tag line says everything.

Rely on Old Masters Topcoat

Wood needs to be finished with a reputable topcoat to create a enduring, protected product. Don’t make it possible for water or alcohol damage, surface abrasions or chipping, or marring to wreak havoc on your woodwork. Use a clear topcoat finish to help keep items protected from every day wear and tear. Old Masters external finishes feature UV defense. These finishes help keep your pieces safe from water, Mother Nature, the wind and all of the weather.

Proper topcoat options are vital since every clear finish is designed uniquely to benefit certain applications. The Gel Polyurethane is a great option for vintage items and furniture finishes; however, this product would perform poorly as a flooring solution. Before choosing a topcoat, read the labels to pick a suitable product. You will find a clear finish selection guide which can help you determine which top coat will best match your needs.



Protect the stability of your interior and exterior wood projects with suitable surface protection. Corrosion is a common concept with Mother Nature. It is recommended to reapply outdoor exterior clear finishes every 2 years; although, items that are continuously in the sunshine may require an annual coating for the maximum protection.

Protect With a Topcoat

A protective, clear topcoat is essential for keeping your wood staining and finishing items secure.


Be certain that the location is well ventilated. Use a hydrated rag to clean the exterior and remove any dust. Always stir the product thoroughly but never shake it before applying. Projects that require more than one container are suggested to combine containers and mix to generate a uniform gloss before application. Testing the finish on a hidden surface can help you assess if adequate adhesion is happening. Do not implement in windy locations or sunlight. Avoid applying clear, water-based finishes with tack rags because you will get fuzz and debris in your finish.

Follow these steps when applying a regular clear finish to correctly prepared wood:

1. Apply with 2-inch to a 2-and-a-half-inch China bristle paint brush.

2. Avoid creating bubbles by applying in even, lightweight coats. Go with the path of the grain and employ as few brush strokes as you possibly can to create a nice coating. Avoid thick coats as this can result in wrinkles and drips upon drying.

3. Enable the finish to dry completely. Every single product is different so check the label for drying times. The time ranges depending on the type of finish you use.

4. Use 220 grit sandpaper to delicately sand between coats. This can help the finish adhere better and fosters a nicer result. Take extra drying time into account in cases where your sandpaper gets gummed up. Take sanding dust away for a clean finish.

5. Recoating times and reapplication guidelines are on the product label. A two-coat minimum is typically recommended for interior finishing. Three layers are best for exterior applications. There is detailed information distinct to each product on the instruction label.



6. Before using the freshly finished items, allow them to rest for at least 24 hours to give the product proper curing time. Take additional care the first week after application to allow the solution to cure to its hardest ability. For anyone who is treating floors, keep away from heavy traffic. After working with your last finish coat, wait a few days or a the least 72 hours before placing the furniture back. Never push the furniture when relocating it. Allow the floors cure for at least a week before cleaning them or putting rugs down.

Tips For the Best Application

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

Make sure you are working in a dust-free atmosphere to keep your finished product free from spots. There are lots of vapours in solvent-based finishes so only use in well-ventilated locations.