I messed up my stain

[GiantBen]

I finished buildintg my new stand. I used a MinWax stain that says it "penetrates, stains, seals". My understanding from talking to someone at Sherwin Williams, was that this was sufficient. I splashes some paint on the stand, and when I cleaned it up (with a sponge), some of the stain finish has rubbed away. Looks like the top glossy layer has rubbed off.

The first question is how to fix it.
Should I restain over that whole panel?
Run the shole thing down with the sponge so it all looks the same and then restain?

The second question is how to prevent it next time.
I'm guessing a laquer coating as the final layer is the best choice?

Thanks from someone who knows almost nothing about wood work, stains, etc.

 

[GiantBen]

Anyone? I'm gonna hit HD on the way home.

 

[Grant W]

I dont understand what you did???

 

[GiantBen]

Let me try again:

I stained my plywood using a MinWax stain. Couple weeks later, I was doing something in the garage and spilled something on the stand. I cleaned it off with a sponge, but it appears to have removed some of the stain. The color doesn't look quite the same in that spot anymore.

I wanted to know the best way to fix this. I'm guessing I should restain it and then put a sealer on. I was wondering if I should wipe down the whole thing with the sponge first, so that the restain all starts from the same plave (ie having some stain removed).

 

[GiantBen]

Just reapplying the stain seems to have done the trick. Sealant goes on tomorrow.

 

[Grant W]

Yep just reapply them get the finish on to protect it.

 

[shaneh]

I used a really good water proof clear spray that went on easy and I just let dry and I have never had a problem a year later. I can see a few scratches in the clear sealer but the paint is good. Look for the spray sealer...I do not know the name but it was a popular spray.

 

[GiantBen]

Thanks Shane. I already have some brush-on, so I'll probably give it a go. I've heard several good things about the spray on though.