TACK RAGS, CLOTHS, AND PADS

Soft, clean, lint-free cloths are used at every stage in the finishing schedule to lightly dust the surface after each coat has thoroughly dried. Cheesecloth, muslin, and lint-free cotton cloths find the widest use in finishing.

Cheesecloth is frequently used to make tack rags, although other types of cloth can be substituted. The purpose of a tack rag is to pick up any dust or sanding particles that might fall on the surface. Dust, lint, and other particles trapped in a finish will result in a very unsightly and unprofessional appearance. This is a major problem encountered by the finisher, especially when working with varnish. If the problem becomes too severe, the surface will have to be stripped and refinished. As a result, the tack rag serves as a very useful tool to the finisher.

Tack rags can be purchased in most paint and hardware stores, or can be easily made from a piece of cheesecloth. If you decide to make your own tack rags, be sure that the cloth is clean. Store your rags in a tightly closed glass jar. The lid of the storage container must be tight enough to keep the tack rag moist. Never allow the tack rag to dry out or it will be useless. When it appears to be drying, use the steps illustrated to Re – moisten it. Tack rags purchased from paint and hardware stores ( or mail order houses such as Minnesota woodworks of monneapolis) are chemically treated so that they will always re-main soft and tacky. At least this is the manufacturer's claim.