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Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Topcoats are made with the highest-quality urethane resin, making them extremely durable and long-lasting. Formulated to be wiped on with a cloth or applied with a foam brush, this ambering finish penetrates to provide deep-down protection for that "natural" look.

An unusual combination of oils, urethanes, and wax, Seal-A-Cell Clear has served craftsman for decades as the best wipe-on clear coat to get that "natural" look on beautiful woods. The oils penetrate deep into the wood to highlight the figure of the wood, and the urethane ensures durability.

Arm-R-Seal Blotching

The problem areas on your table are probably caused by surface contamination from oils, waxes or cleaning products used over the years.

Contaminants from dusting sprays that contain silicone will also impact the appearance and adherence of a finish - silicone is almost impossible to remove. Oil soaps and wax can also cause adhesion failures. This may be why the finish is performing differently on the leaves vs the table top. Adhesion failure is often more obvious in the deepest patterns of grain because the contamination is driven deep into the grain. 

This organic, original wood table was finished with General Finishes

General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Urethane Top Coat

Yes, they can, but be sure to stay within a manufacturer's finishing system and not mix product from different brands.

  1. In General Finishes line you can add up to 20% Gel Stain or Oil Base Stain to Arm-R-Seal to deepen the color for toning purposes.
  2. Simply stir the stain into the topcoat.
  3. Keep stirring during application as solids will settle very quickly when mixed into an oil urethane-based finish.
  4. Be sure to test in a hidden area before proceeding with your entire project.
General Finishes Arm-R-Seal

Although Arm-R-Seal rarely needs thinning because of its low viscosity, it can be thinned with up to 10% mineral spirits - more than that may thin the solids content too much.

Thinned Arm-R-Seal will be diluted but can be stored without risk of separation.

Today we'd like to share with you this gorgeous table that was built and finished by Marion Lovett for his own home. This project was quite the challenge considering the table weighs in at about 800-900 lbs!  It is 8" around and made of old oak barn wood.

GF is excited to showcase Aaron Maes of Rugged Cross Fine Art Woodworking, LLC for this week's Woodworker Wednesday. He specializes in high-quality custom furniture such as chairs, tables, desks and more!

General Finishes Oil Based Arm-R-Seal Topcoat

Oil-based topcoats are "oxidizing" products which means that the moment it is introduced to oxygen, a chemical reaction will cause the finish to begin to harden. As topcoat is used, the empty space in the can is filled with air, furthering the curing process. 

Tips to ensure your Arm-R-Seal remains in great working condition:

Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner with an oil-based stain is designed for use before staining new, soft, and porous wood surfaces, such as aspen, cherry, birch, poplar, or pine.

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