Forum,
Cabinet has been stripped, sanded and stained to its original tone, and its a beauty. Not being an accomplished painter with fancy equipment, I've used polyurethane finishes in spray cans in the past, but with limited success. ie runs, drips, faulty spray cans etc. Initial inspection of the cabinet revealed a satin or semi-gloss finish. The stripping process revealed what I believe to be plain old varnish. Several months ago there were a few posts concerning wipe-on or brush-on finishes that produced professional results with ease. I would be interested in re-visiting those.

marv

Marv, I've used Deft clear lacquer in a spray can, either semi-gloss or glossy. Lacquer dries so quickly, it hardly has a chance to run.
Doug

I'd vote for the spray lacquer. Use several light coats and avoid the temptation to spray too much on at one time so you won't get runs. Mark from Kalamazoo

: I'd vote for the spray lacquer. Use several light coats and avoid the temptation to spray too much on at one time so you won't get runs. Mark from Kalamazoo

A quick note from one who ignored that old warning: "Try on an out of the way place in order to see if there is any reaction between the lacquer and the original finish", or something like that. Don't ignore the warning. Save yourself some repair work.
Lewis

Thanks all,
I'm starting to think the lacquer path may be best, although my one concern is the oil based stain, which seems to be a little tacky still, after a couple days. Had to apply extra to get the depth of color desired. Researched the subject on several sites today, and most recommend lacquer for all the reasons stated here.

marv

:: I'd vote for the spray lacquer. Use several light coats and avoid the temptation to spray too much on at one time so you won't get runs. Mark from Kalamazoo
:
:A quick note from one who ignored that old warning: "Try on an out of the way place in order to see if there is any reaction between the lacquer and the original finish", or something like that. Don't ignore the warning. Save yourself some repair work.
:Lewis