May 7, 2024 2:43 pm
I always wipe off excess glue with a damp rag as I glue up my projects, yet when I apply stain I often wind up with light, blotchy spots in those areas. What am I doing wrong?
Sticky Aides Your Guide to Adhesives, Glue, and Beyond
When it comes to removing wet glue, a hasty swipe with a damp rag can actually worsen the situation. The rag ends up soaked with dissolved glue, causing it to spread rather than being effectively eliminated. This creates a barrier that seals the wood pores, hindering the even absorption of stain into the wood. If you opt to remove glue with a damp rag, it’s crucial to repeat the process several times, ensuring you use a fresh cloth or a clean section of the cloth with each wipe. Alternatively, a better approach is to employ a dampened low-abrasive scrub sponge like Scotch-Brite to eliminate the glue, followed by a wipe-down using a clean, dry rag.
Numerous woodworkers prefer waiting for approximately an hour until the glue forms a thin skin, which can then be scraped off using a chisel or a rigid putty knife. While waiting for the glue to fully harden and then removing it with a sharp chisel is another option, this method carries the risk of damaging the wood or unintentionally pulling out fibers along with the glue.
There is an additional option that virtually guarantees a stain-free outcome: finishing the wood beforehand. This approach not only allows for an even application of the finish, even in tight and awkward areas, but also prevents the finish from coming into contact with the parts that will be glued. By covering those areas with masking tape, you ensure that the wood fibers remain unsealed, enabling the glue to fulfill its intended purpose effectively.