Quoted:
We have an old wood kitchen table. I sanded it down, then used pre-conditioner. I applied 3 coats of stain and we have the table colored exactly how we want it.
I am now in the process of poly-ing the table. My intention is to provide as much protection as possible from dents, nicks, scrapes, etc. I don't want to have to repeat my work. I want it "bulletproof!"
I have applied 3 coats of the polyurethane already. Each coat seems to get easier to apply. I feel like I could go forever, and there's plenty of poly left in the can. The only thing holding me back from putting on 100 coats is that we want to use the table soon!
But seriously, at what point can I expect diminishing returns as far as work involved vs. protection for the table? What do you guys recommend?
If you want it to "last forever", you're going to want a two-part epoxy-based coating.
The polyurethane you get in a can at Walmart or Home Depot is, at best, aimed at novices.
You could find-out from someone who refinishes wood floors what MIGHT be the best single-stage urethane to use.
Also, you said that you got the stain to "exactly" what you want it to look like? You do KNOW that once you introduce a clear finish, it will get DARKER, right?
ETA: Just noticed she wanted a "satin" finish...it won't be as dark as a gloss, but will still rich-up the color.