ANSWER:
It depends! Read on, or watch this GF video demonstration: http://youtu.be/torOAQy91q4
*Here are the main questions to ask yourself:
General Finishes offers a complete line of oil based, water based and wax products. Application techniques differ between oil based products and water based products.
Wood Bowl Finish is a durable oil-and-urethane oil-based finish designed for decorative wooden bowls and turnings. For countertops actively used for chopping and cutting, use Butcher Block Oil instead.
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.
Gel Satin Topcoat has been a long-time favorite finish of woodworkers, with a heavy-duty oil-and-urethane base that produces a beautiful, hand-rubbed look. Gel Satin Topcoat has a thick consistency, so there are no drips, or runs.
Flat Out Flat is a self-crosslinking water-based topcoat that mimics the lustrous look and feel of wax. The increased matting agents used to create "flat look" cause this wood finish to have less clarity, show fingerprints more and provide less durability than High Performance.
Gel Stain from General Finishes is home of the popular Java Gel Stain featured across the nation's social media for upcycling furniture and cabinets.
Oil based top coat can be applied over Milk Paint so long as 24 hours wait time is allowed between the two products. When moving from a water based product to an oil based product it is essential that the first is dry before applying the second.
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.