Minwax's polyurethane stain runs $16.48 a quart at Lowes. "Water-based polyurethane is typically more expensive than oil-based," says Walker. "It will also likely require more coats, which will ...

Unlike lacquer, shellac and varnish, which have been around for centuries, polyurethane is a product of 20th-century lab ...

Minwax, Citristrip, and Smart Strip. I used a thrifted nightstand made of solid white oak with an existing oil-based stain. When I look for pieces to restore, I always look for real wood.