Sand and Stain Wood Mantel

What happens here

After the wood glue has fully cured, remove the clamps from the assembled mantel. Use an orbital sander to thoroughly sand all surfaces of the mantel, starting with a coarser grit (e.g., 120-grit) and progressing to finer grits (e.g., 220-grit) for a smooth finish. Apply wood filler to any visible nail holes, gaps, or imperfections, then allow it to dry and sand flush. Clean off any sanding dust. Apply a dark walnut, semi-transparent wood stain using a brush or rag, ensuring even coverage. Allow the stain to penetrate for the recommended time, then wipe off any excess. Apply additional coats if a darker finish is desired, allowing proper drying time between coats.

Goal: This step involves sanding the assembled mantel to achieve a smooth finish, followed by applying wood filler to hide imperfections, and finally staining the wood to the desired color.