How to Seal Coffee Tray - Part 4 of 6 - Sealing The Top

Varathane®

By Gary Boutin

Parts and Supplies:

Paper tarp
Paint can opener
Paint stick
Lacquer paint brush 1-1/2 inch
Varathane premium polyurethane 

We received a Walnut coffee tray for Christmas. The tray was painted in a light color stain and sealer. We wanted the tray to last longer and sealed for many more year of service.

This post shows the five steps on how to a coat of polyurethane sealer to the tray. 

Step 1: Fig.1 shows the tray that has been completely sealed from the bottom and the exterior sides. Now the top and the edges are next to be done. Three coat of polyurethane will be applied to get this tray finished. Each coat must dry before applying the next coat. Read the instructions on the polyurethane can to get proper drying time.

Fig.1 Top tray all ready

Step 2: Fig.2 shows the first coat of poly to the top of the tray. Holding the can near the tray prevents dripping from the brush.

Fig.2 Applying sealer

Step 3: Fig.3 shows the sealer being applied to the edge of the paint tray.

Fig.3 Angle brush

Step 4: Fig.4 shows the sealer being applied all around the edges of the tray. The edges took a lot of sealer before it completely sealed the edge. Notice how the sealer has the center area nice and polished.

Fig.4 Edges painted

Step 5: Fig.5 shows the entire top has been sealed with three coats of polyurethane sealer. Now it's time to clean up the tools.

Fig.5 Set to dry

How to Seal a Coffee Tray:

• Part 1 of 6 - Washing
• Part 2 of 6 - Oil Seal Coat
• Part 3 of 6 - Apply Polyurethane to Tray Bottom
• Part 4 of 6 - Sealing The Top
• Part 5 of 6 - Cleaning The Tool
• Part 6 of 6 - The Finish Product

How to Replace the damaged Bottom with White Hardboard:

• Part 1 of 2 - Board Preparation 
• Part 2 of 2 - Inside Board Replaced

Update: DIY Advisor has New blogs check them today:

• Handyman Blog: DIY Advisor
• DIY Advisor Sitemap
• Food Blog: From Kiwis To Pistachios
• Food Blog Sitemap
• Tool Blog: DIY Advisor Toolbox
• Tool Blog Sitemap
• Artwork Blog: Light in Dark Artwork
• Artwork Blog Sitemap
• Class-A Tests: DIY Class-A Drivers License Tests
• Class-A Tests Sitemap: Class-A Sitemap
• DIY Poem: DIY Poem Meter Blog
• DIY Poem Sitemap: DIY Sitemap

• Cookie Alert: European Union laws requires that you know that this blog uses cookies. If you are concerned about this please click here to see how Google uses this information.

Note: The DIY Advisor assumes no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any jobs. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed contractor if in doubt about any steps on these posts. All names were changed to protect client's privacy. DIY Advisor. Reproduction of site content including photos without permission prohibited. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2011-