Tips for Brushing Top Coats and Cleaning Brushes

Learn how to apply a smooth top coat using a brush. Michael Dresdner demonstrates how to brush on a varnish finish and tip off the finish. Tipping off is a technique used to smooth out brush strokes. After brushing on the final finish, you will need to clean your brush. You'll learn the best way to clean a brush to keep it in good condition for future use.

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[mckenziekronwald]

You are AMAZING!!! I love love love your techniques, and your attention to detail. I can tell you are a true and highly skilled craftsman.

[mrtire]

Absolutely fantastic video! Probably the best how to help video I've ever seen great job very very informative! You broke down every step and explained it perfectly! Thank you!

[aderftard]

Contains useful, detailed information - very clearly presented. I think this is one of the best videos you've posted. Thank you.

[cordialementz]

Found this video very helpful and full of useful tips for applying varnish and looking after the brushes. I have completed the first coat of varnish on an exterior door inside and outside and it looks so professional. Thank you.

[carriemaddern]

Thank you so much for this video. I've been working on finishing some interior doors. I wish I had seen this video sooner. The information you provided is a game changer!

[russdallai]

Thank you for that great demo. I've never known how to keep a brush nice with oil based applications. Now I do. I particularly appreciate the tip about cleaning the brush as you go.

[sweetds]

Thank you! I am spending to much on brushes. Guess I was being to gentle when cleaning my brushes. You’ve given the most thorough way to clean along with reasonable explanations that are easy to understand. Finally help I understand. ♥️

[flyingratchet]

Dang! It's amazing how people who are fantastic communicators immediately empower and motivate even when explaining something small and nuanced. Headed back in the shop! :)

[barrylenoble]

Thanks so much. Lots of great information.

[whataboutrb]

What a great video! Simple and to the point. Thanks dude!

[cathyknapp]

Thank you so much for sharing all your wisdom and knowledge I'm just starting to get into this and you're right the brushes are very expensive great way to restore them and the Finish is beautiful have a great day and God bless you looking forward to your next showing

[ramosusarmy]

Dude your voice is so relaxing to hear

[mattmorrisson]

Great video! I actually have a piece I need to finish coming up soon, so this is very timely. Thanks!

[Katsoup]

Thank you for the information on brush care. I've wasted a bunch of cheap brushes using polyurethane.

[johnfithian-franks]

Hi, I have a bought brush cleaner that fits into a drill and has a pipe on the end with 2 strong springs attached across the end of the pipe. You puss the handle of the brush in and the springs keep the handle still while the rotation of the drill forces the paint of finish out of the brush. I then wash the brush give it a short spin and rap it in paper the same as you do. The kit came with a brush holder and a roller holder, the roller holder (try saying that fast) fits inside the roller and works the same way that the brush cleaner does. I have never seen these kits since but I have used them for over 20 years and still get great results from them. If you ever see these kits buy one strait away it will save you pounds on brushes and make sure your brushes are like new every time you use them.

[SanderOpdam]

This was great to watch! Thanks for the info.

[Charlie-pklj]

about time some one showed how to use n clean a brush properly..

[ChristopherDillman]

Took me a dozen YT visits to finally find this video. Great instruction.

Btw - anyone know if it's ok to use that ox-hair brush when using polycrylic instead? Or go nylon-synthetic...

[aaronspain]

Great instructional video! Are you aware that you sound like Mr Grouper from the TV show "Bubble Guppies" (voiced by Tino Ansana)? My son came in to the room as I was watching your video and thought I was watching Bubble Guppies!

[amargnwalkr]

I could barely hear you over your shirt. ;) Great video.