How to Apply a Stained Finish to Highly Figured Hardwood How to Apply This Finish 1. Sand the project up through the grits until at least 320-grit a. It is a good idea to sand pieces that will be hard to reach before assembly. 2. Wipe the project with mineral spirits to check for glue splotches. Sand the glue away if found. 3. Apply a coat of aniline dye mixed with water to the surface. Flood it on with a staining sponge, and wipe it off with shop towels 4. Apply a sealer coat (Zinsser Sealcoat)