Crystal-Clear Water-Based Finish for Furniture, Cabinets & Woodworking
Vermont Natural Coatings PolyWhey® Furniture Finish in Satin is a water-based wood finish for the interior projects you look at and touch every day: dining tables, cabinets, built-ins, trim, doors and handmade furniture. It dries crystal clear and does not yellow, so the true color of the wood and the grain stay front and center.
Made with patented PolyWhey® technology, which uses whey protein from Vermont dairy, this ultra-low VOC finish (under 180 g/L) offers strong resistance to water, household chemicals and everyday wear, with low odor and soap-and-water cleanup. Choose a quart for a table, dresser or weekend project, or a gallon for kitchen cabinet sets, larger furniture and production shops, using the size drop-down above.
Why Woodworkers Like It
- Non-yellowing clarity – ideal over light woods like maple, birch and white oak.
- Satin sheen – a soft, hand-rubbed look with gentle luster.
- Tough protection – resists spills, cleaners and daily use on tables and cabinets.
- Recoat in about 2 hours – finish a project in a day or two instead of a week.
- Low odor & ultra-low VOC – comfortable to use indoors, in a shop or in an occupied home.
- Goes over stain – apply over properly cured stains.
Recommended Uses
- Kitchen and dining tables
- Kitchen and bathroom cabinets
- Interior doors, trim and moldings
- Built-ins, bookcases and shelving
- Toys and children's furniture
- Custom furniture, woodturning and craft projects
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vermont Natural Coatings |
|---|---|
| Product | PolyWhey® Furniture Finish |
| Sheen | Satin |
| Size | Quart or Gallon |
| Type | Water-based (PolyWhey® technology) |
| Coverage | 500–600 sq. ft. per gallon |
| Recommended Coats | 2–3 |
| Recoat Time | Approx. 2 hours |
| Full Cure | Approx. 1 week |
| VOC | Less than 180 g/L |
| Cleanup | Soap and water |
Application Tips
Sand bare wood smooth and remove all dust. Stir thoroughly (do not shake) and apply thin coats with a synthetic brush, foam brush, pad or sprayer. Lightly scuff-sand with fine-grit paper between coats for the smoothest feel. Let the piece cure for about a week before heavy use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use PolyWhey Furniture Finish on a kitchen table?
Yes. It is designed for interior wood that sees daily use, including dining tables, cabinetry and built-ins.
Is it a water-based polyurethane?
Yes. It is a water-based wood finish that delivers durable protection with low odor and easy cleanup.
Will it yellow my wood?
No. It dries crystal clear and is designed to avoid the amber tint common with oil-based polyurethane.
Can I use it on kids' furniture and toys?
Its ultra-low VOC formula has made PolyWhey a popular choice among furniture makers and toy builders.