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Polyurethane can also be applied with a cloth rag, however, I prefer to use a brush because it is thicker and better suited for brush application. It needs to be brushed on the stained wood surface in even strokes and again, working with the grain of the wood. Always work with the wood.Polyurethane is thicker than stain, it needs to be applied with a brush. Although they manufacture foam brush applicators, it is recommended that you use a bristle brush that is specifically approved for use with polyurethane. The liquid needs to be brushed on the stained wood surface in even strokes and again, working with the grain of the wood. Always work with the wood.Your goal is to evenly coat the stained wood. You should be working in an area that is well illuminated with light. As you apply the polyurethane look for any areas that appear dull. If an area appears dull then you either missed that area or didn't apply an adequate amount of polyurethane. Spread the it over the entire surface with long, even strokes. Don’t use too much or you’re likely to get runs.* Apply polyurethane with a brush in long even strokes. Your goal is to evenly coat the stained wood. You should be working in an area that is well illuminated. As you apply the polyurethane look for any areas that appear dull in the light. If an area appears dull then you either missed that area or didn't apply an adequate amount of polyurethane. Spread the brushed on liquid over the entire surface with long, even strokes. Don’t use too much or you’re likely to get runs.Without delay you should do what is called "tipping off the finish," which is to run over the entire surface with long brushstrokes as soon as you completed coating the last area. You will brush from end to end and overlap your strokes. Because polyurethane dries quickly you will not want to poke along. Keep up a quick pace while working with the sealant. Get it applied and get it tipped off. Without delay you should do what is called "tipping off the finish," which is to run over the entire surface with long brushstrokes as soon as you completed coating the last area. You will brush from end to end and overlap your strokes. Because polyurethane dries quickly you will not want to poke along. Keep up a quick pace while working with the sealant. Get it applied and get it tipped off. While tipping off the finish you will not need to dip the brush in the can of polyurethane. Work with what is already on the surface unless you spot an area that you completely missed.While drying, do not tip the wood surface on its side. The surface needs to remain flat and upright to prevent runs. About five minutes after the coat you should inspect for any drips or defects. You can make subtle adjustments at this time with additional polyurethane to a flawed area. While drying, do not tip the wood fixture on its side. The surface needs to remain flat and upright to prevent runs. About five minutes after the last applied coat you should inspect for any drips or defects. You can make subtle adjustments at this time with additional polyurethane to a flawed area. Some people use a polishing compound after sanding. The compound has a fine abrasive that’ll remove any scratches left by the sandpaper. After rubbing, let the surface dry and buff the finish with a clean, dry cloth. Whether or not you want to take the extra step in using the polishing compound is up to you. Some people use a polishing compound after sanding. The compound has a fine abrasive that’ll remove any scratches left by the sandpaper. After rubbing, let the surface dry and buff the finish with a clean, dry cloth. Whether or not you want to take the extra step in using the polishing compound is up to you. === Final Thoughts === Some people recommend using a sealant between the final application of stain and the first application of polyurethane. I never felt it was necessary as I believe modern polyurethane is an effective sealant. Polyurethane combines the best properties of rubber and plastic serving to seal and protect the stained wood. When selecting a brush remember that bristles are better than foam. Disposable foam brushes are no substitute for real bristles when it comes to laying down a smooth coat of polyurethane finish. The only time I find a foam brush useful is using a small foam brush to get into corners that the staining rag cannot reach. Use a good quality brush and prep the brush before use. To avoid bristles in your finish, be sure to fan a new brush and pull out loose bristles prior to use. Cheap low quality brushes tend to lose bristles readily. Brushes intended for use with latex paint are not appropriate for the application of polyurethane. Get the right brush for the job. Some polyurethane products allow for application of a second coat after only two hours. This is fine if it is indicated on the can. However, never attempt to sand the final finish after only two hours! Wait a full day before sanding.