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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.

You can use any of our topcoats.

We recommend an oil-based finish such as General Finishes Arm-R-Seal.

Oily woods can be tricky with any topcoat. The high oil content affects the drying process of the finish coats and Padauk has a very high oil content. Sometimes oily woods dry fine and sometimes they take weeks.

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.

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:

Arm-R-Seal can be sprayed successfully, but we prefer hand application methods because it is very easy to spray too much in one area. If you choose to spray, use very thin coats and watch for runs (large drips that run down the side of your project).

If you notice a run, immediately wipe or brush it out. If you correct a run promptly, you will not see a mark. However, dried runs can be difficult to remove.