Old Masters is known for its wood finishes and stain products. These products are available for sale among independent hardware, paint and specialty woodworking locations. Old Masters merchandise is suitable for woodworking enthusiasts and professional craftsmen.



Small Town Origins

Iowa is where Old Masters is from. Since 1926, the organization has been producing high-quality merchandise. Old Masters was formed by a Dutch immigrant. The company started making paint solutions in a garage and afterward grew to marketing products to many sectors. Surpassing 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

The organization formulates its stains and finishes with vintage artisan craftsmanship. These solutions are meant to seal, protect and commemorate the knowledge and ability of master craftspeople.Preserve your valued woodcraft into timeless, lasting pieces. We are devoted to this philosophy and notion with our company tagline, “Craftsman Quality Finishes.”

Rely on Old Masters Topcoat

Wood needs to be finished with a consistent topcoat to create a enduring, protected product. Using a clear topcoat finish can certainly help keep your project safe from marring, chipping, surface abrasions and wear and tear from water spots. There is additional UV protection available in the exterior finishes product line. Protect against the weather and exposure to wind, water and Mother Nature.

Make certain you choose the right topcoat as each clear finish is distinctively formulated. The Gel Polyurethane is a great option for collectibles and furniture finishes; however, this product would work poorly as a flooring solution. Before choosing a topcoat, read the labels to pick a suitable product. Check out Old Masters’ clear finish selection guide to help you decide on the perfect topcoat for your application.



Maintain sustainable beauty on your exterior and interior finishes by taking good care of the surfaces. Deterioration is a common theme 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 ultimate protection.

Obtain Superior Protection With a Topcoat

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


Make sure the location is well ventilated. Remove any dust or debris from the object with a clean rag. Lightly stir the product with care before using but don’t shake it or else you will produce air bubbles. Items that will need multiple containers need to be combined and mixed ahead of time to deliver a uniform gloss. Try the finish on a undetectable surface location in advance to check for sufficient adhesion. Do not implement in windy locations or sunshine. Avoid applying clear, water-based finishes with tack rags as you'll get fuzz and debris in your finish.

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

1. Invest in a 2” or 2.5” China bristle paint brush to administer your clear finish.

2. Avoid producing bubbles by applying in even, light coats. Go with the path of the grain and employ as few brush strokes as possible to create a nice coating. Thin coats are necessary as any heavy coats of finish can cause dripping or wrinkling once dried.

3. Permit the finish to dry thoroughly. Every product is different so check the label for drying times. The time may differ depending on the type of finish you are using.

4. Carefully sand with 220 grit sandpaper between coats. The gentle sanding allows the finish to enjoy better adhesion and a sharper result. Allow extra drying time in case the sandpaper becomes gummy. Get rid of any sanding dust between coats to ensure a clear finish.

5. Reapply product and read label instructions regarding recoating times. Most internal projects call for a minimum of 2 coats. Three applications are best for exterior applications. Every product has particular details on the label so read them carefully.



6. Before using the freshly finished items, permit them to rest for at least 24 hours to give the product proper curing time. Be extra careful for the first week after application as this is how long some items take to cure fully. Mark off surface applications from high-traffic. After employing your last finish coat, wait a few days or a the least 72 hours prior to placing the furniture back. Never push the furniture when shifting it. Wait at least one week before cleaning the floors or adding rugs.

Application Tips

Before the finish dries, use a firm-bristle artist brush to take away any lint that may have affixed itself.

Make sure you are working in a dust-free environment to keep your finished item free from spots. Avoid using solvent-based finishes in areas that don’t have sufficient ventilation as they are filled with harmful vapours.