ok I have been having problems w/the storage of my brushes,mostly my ones i use for clear coating with,(yeah i know time to buy a spray system just dont have in budget right now),I have been useing paint thinner to clea,but it seems to not work to well,then i wrap in papertowel,or i hang it up to dry.just dont what i am doing WRON, lol HELP

ok I have been having problems w/the storage of my brushes,mostly my ones i use for clear coating with,(yeah i know time to buy a spray system just dont have in budget right now),I have been useing paint thinner to clea,but it seems to not work to well,then i wrap in papertowel,or i hang it up to dry.just dont what i am doing WRON, lol HELP

Ron, so far you are doing nothing wrong, you are just missing a couple more steps in the operation.

After you clean your brush with mineral spirits, you should finish the clean up with hot water and soap, that takes the rest of the residue out that tends to harden the brush over a few hours after clean up. Then to top it all off so your brush maintains its nice luster and soft feel, is to put a couple drops of oil on the brush, and work it in with your fingers before you wrap up your brush and store it. I use Lemon Oil, any kind will do, you can find it Home Depot, or any hardware store. Just a couple drops will do ya. That way your brush will not harden up.

 

Another question, what are you finishing, what type of projects? Not all projects require the complicated mess of finishes with brushes, some you can simply wipe on finish and throw the rag away. So, what are you finishing?

Ron,

I usually clean with mineral spirits and then wash with a strong solution of laundry detergent and water. I read someplace that even brushes that were used for water based finishes should be washed with mineral spirits then soapy water.

I think Lew and John have hit this right. Tried teaching the Mrs. this and still have to go back and double check. As for going to a spraying system, trust me, there is a lot of clean up there too. We all learn as we go. And there are people here to help you learn bu the mistakes we have all made. Welcome to the woodworking side life.