I, like a lot of people here, have been slopping stuff from a can onto wood surfaces for a long time, and over time we've come to respect this notion: Finishing the woodworking project is just as integral, and just as important, as any other step in the entire process of making the project.
I'll offer up this notion to every person who is new to woodworking- finishing is just as important as every other step in your project. Fast and easy have no part in this process. Prep work is the make-or-break point. Do not rush the finishing process, finishing takes time. Do not buy too-good-to-be-true snake oils. Do not make promises you cannot deliver upon (like starting a project today and delivering it, coated in properly applied finishes, in less than a week).
You only get out what you put into a project. Rush the finishing process and you will regret it. If the can says one coat every 2, or 8, or 24 hours, then respect that process and follow those directions. With time finishing will not be a chore and you'll respect it more when you see how much better it is when performed properly.
Change your thinking about finishing. You'll learn and understand, and your end result will benefit from your efforts, and you'll come to enjoy the process.
I'll offer up this notion to every person who is new to woodworking- finishing is just as important as every other step in your project. Fast and easy have no part in this process. Prep work is the make-or-break point. Do not rush the finishing process, finishing takes time. Do not buy too-good-to-be-true snake oils. Do not make promises you cannot deliver upon (like starting a project today and delivering it, coated in properly applied finishes, in less than a week).
You only get out what you put into a project. Rush the finishing process and you will regret it. If the can says one coat every 2, or 8, or 24 hours, then respect that process and follow those directions. With time finishing will not be a chore and you'll respect it more when you see how much better it is when performed properly.
Change your thinking about finishing. You'll learn and understand, and your end result will benefit from your efforts, and you'll come to enjoy the process.