Can you make your own water based wipe on poly?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to make your own water based wipe on poly finish at home. Wipe on polyurethane is a popular finish for wood projects because it provides good protection and is easy to apply. Water based poly dries faster and has less odor than oil based polyurethane. Making your own wipe on poly is a simple process of thinning regular polyurethane varnish with water. This allows you to control the exact consistency you want for wiping on the finish. With some basic supplies and a little bit of experimenting, you can come up with the perfect homemade wipe on poly for your projects.

What is Wipe On Poly?

Wipe on polyurethane is a thinned down version of regular polyurethane finish. It has a lower viscosity than normal poly, meaning it flows more easily. This allows it to be applied with a rag or brush without running or dripping. The main difference between wipe on poly and regular polyurethane is the addition of thinning agents. For oil based wipe on poly, mineral spirits are used to thin the finish. For water based versions, water is used to thin the polyurethane. The thinner consistency allows for smooth and easy application with a rag or foam brush. Just wipe on a thin coat, let it dry, then apply another coat. Typically only 2-3 coats are needed for sufficient protection.

Advantages of Using Water Based Poly

Water based polyurethane has some significant advantages over oil based options:

• Faster drying time – Water based poly typically dries within 1 hour, while oil based options take up to 24 hours to dry.
• Low odor – Water based poly has a much less offensive odor compared to oil based.
• Easy cleanup – Cleanup requires only soap and water, no mineral spirits needed.
• Environmentally friendly – Water based poly is low in VOCs and less hazardous to work with.
• Clear finish – Water based poly dries crystal clear, while oil based can yellow over time.

For these reasons, many woodworkers prefer to use water based wipe on poly for their projects. Making your own allows you to get these same benefits while customizing the finish to your specific needs.

Supplies Needed

Making your own water based wipe on poly is easy with just a few basic supplies:

• Polyurethane – Use a high quality water based polyurethane, either satin or gloss finish.
• Distilled water – Tap water can cause the poly to cloud up.
• Mixing container – A quart sized plastic or glass jar works well.
• Stir sticks – Wooden paint stir sticks are ideal.
• Funnel – For transferring the finished wipe on poly to an application container.
• Cheesecloth – For straining out any bubbles or impurities.

In addition to the mixing supplies, you’ll also need containers for applying the finish. Plastic food containers with lids work well for dipping rags or foam brushes. Cups for pouring are handy too.

How to Make Your Own Water Based Wipe On Poly

Here is the easy process for making your own custom water based wipe on polyurethane:

1. Start with undiluted polyurethane. A quart is a good amount to work with. Gloss or satin finish can be used.
2. Prepare distilled water in another container. You’ll be adding water to the polyurethane to thin it.
3. Start by adding water in a 1:1 ratio. For a quart of polyurethane, add one quart of water. Mix thoroughly with a stir stick.
4. Test the consistency on a piece of scrap wood. It should wipe smoothly without running or dripping.
5. If the poly is still too thick, add more water in 1/4 cup increments until desired consistency is reached. The ratio can range from 1:1 up to 3:1 (water to poly).
6. Once the wipe on poly is mixed, run it through a cheesecloth to strain out any clumps or bubbles.
7. Transfer to storage containers. Mason jars or plastic food containers work well. Store any extra in the refrigerator to extend shelf life.

The ideal consistency for wipe on polyurethane is like heavy cream. It should flow smoothly out of the container but not drip. Adjust the water ratios as needed based on temperature and humidity. Testing a sample piece first helps dial in the perfect thinness.

How to Apply Homemade Water Based Wipe On Poly

Applying homemade wipe on polyurethane is easy with either a rag or foam brush:

• Make sure the wood surface is clean, dry, and lightly sanded. Wipe away any dust.
• Use a clean lint-free cotton rag or disposable foam brush to apply a thin, even coat. Apply in the direction of the wood grain.
• Allow 2-3 hours for the poly to dry. Lightly sand with 320 grit sandpaper to promote adhesion.
• Wipe away dust and apply a second coat. Allow to dry completely overnight.
• For extra protection, additional coats can be applied up to 4-5 total. Sand lightly between coats.
• The final coat will be dry to the touch in 1 hour. Allow 72 hours for full curing before use.

Wipe on poly goes on very thin, so resist the urge to over apply. Put on the minimum amount needed to coat the surface smoothly. Too much poly can lead to drips and runs due to longer drying time. Light even strokes produce the best results. Always sand lightly between coats to ensure proper adhesion.

Tips for Using Homemade Water Based Wipe On Poly

Follow these tips when using your homemade wipe on polyurethane for optimal results:

• Maintain a wet edge as you apply by working from one end of the project to the other without stopping.
• Work in a dust-free space with adequate ventilation.
• Apply thin coats and allow proper drying time between coats.
• Gently sand between coats with fine (220-320) grit sandpaper.
• Stir the poly mixture frequently as you apply to prevent separation.
• Use high quality lint-free rags or disposable foam brushes.
• Lightly dampen the rag when needed to improve flow and coverage.
• Always test on scrap wood first to ensure proper thinning ratio.
• Store any leftover poly in a jar with a tight lid in the refrigerator.

Applying multiple thin coats produces a glass smooth finish. Resist overworking each coat to avoid disturbing the previous layer. Maintain a wet edge and overlap strokes slightly to prevent lap marks. With a little practice, you can achieve professional looking results with your homemade water based wipe on poly.

Cleanup and Storage

Cleanup of water based polyurethane is soap and water:

• Wipe up any spills or messes immediately with a damp rag.
• Soak brushes, rags, stirring sticks in warm soapy water to prevent drying.
• Once dried on, poly can be very difficult to remove from surfaces or containers.
• Store mixed wipe on poly in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will last for several months.
• Label containers clearly if storing multiple mixes with different ratios.

Never pour excess polyurethane down a drain. Allow it to dry in the container, then dispose in household waste. With proper cleanup and storage, homemade water based wipe on poly can be used for multiple projects over time.

Conclusion

Creating your own custom water based wipe on polyurethane finish is a simple project that can save money and allow total control over the formula. By using distilled water to thin polyurethane varnish, you can achieve the perfect consistency for easy application with rags or foam brushes. Adjust the ratios to suit your needs. Apply multiple thin coats for a smooth, durable finish. With a few basic supplies and a little practice, you can make wipe on poly that rivals store bought products. Your homemade water based poly will provide excellent protection for all your woodworking projects.