How to prevent finishes from going bad in the can - Eliminate the can

I use Waterlox for most of my woodworking projects, but because of its cost and tendency to gel in the can, I'm usually reluctant to break the seal unless I have several things to finish at the same time. This is a bit of a nuisance, because I have to figure out where to safely store my almost-done projects until I'm ready for a batch finishing job.
You can save money and make finishes last longer by transferring larger containers to smaller ones, adding filler material like pieces of plastic to the can, or displacing the oxygenated air with Bloxygen or propane. Now, I'm giving Stop Loss Bags a shot, because the concept seems fundamentally sound. Full cans are effective at preserving finishes because they contain more finish than air. As the space occupied by liquid decreases, the space occupied by air increases. Chemical-resistant bags allow you to reduce the container size to match the remaining volume of liquid, so there's no air to displace.
If this video was helpful or saved you a can of expensive finish, please consider sending me a tip at ko-fi.com/thesnekkershow (accepts PayPal).
StopLossBags 4 Pack: amzn.to/2ZpatNM
StopLossBags Funnel: amzn.to/2Y1EuTB
Waterlox Original Gallon: amzn.to/3CNLwdw
You can find pictures of my woodworking projects on Instagram: / thesnekkershow
This video is not sponsored. I paid for everything and used my own time. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn a small commission if you use the Amazon links to make a purchase.

[@TheSnekkerShow]

I'll keep a running log of how long the Waterlox lasts: 16 Sep 2021: Opened the can twice to finish some cutting boards 26 Sep 2021: Transferred from can to bag 10 Oct 2021: Opened the bag twice for a step stool 05 Nov 2021: Opened the bag for some picture-frame clamps 06 Nov 2021: Opened the bag twice for a sawblade box ...no issues so far...

[@JohnColgan.]

Old fashioned tip to prevent skin forming on top of paints was to store upside down. No skin on the part you want to accesd!

[@davemeeks8109]

Waterlox can also be stored in empty plastic ketchup bottles that you get from the dollar store. The bottle is easy to use, cap, label and stands on the shelf for future use.

[@gedreillyhomestead6926]

Before digital photography you used to get concertina bottles for storing developing chemicals, you just squished them down thereby cutting out air and UV. Don't know if they're still about. 😎

[@PCHPatti]

I was reminded that I used those containers with my darkroom chemicals years ago to accomplish the same thing...squeeze the air out.

[@Erik_The_Viking]

Love the shirt! HA HA HA! Seriously though - great tips for saving finishes.

[@CALDues]

Guinness isn't my go to, but between going mouth to mouth with a glass of it and performing mouth to mouth with option number two... point made and tip noted. Thanks

[@nefariousyawn]

I look forward to an update. Thanks for bringing this product to our attention.

[@derekrobertson1548]

Dont know if it will make a difference with Waterlox but I would suggest storing the bag of waterlox in a bark place just incase the light causes it to gel over.

[@TheSnekkerShow]

Good thinking. I put a UV-blocking film on my only workshop window, but I keep my finishes in a cabinet anyway.

[@JohnColgan.]

Good idea,but another problem with Paint, varnish, oils etc is the mess around the lid/cap? Tins & rigid plastic can take bashing of opening with force. How will the plastic bag longevity manage if the spout gets gummed up?

[@TheSnekkerShow]

So far I haven't had any trouble opening the lids, even with dried finish on there. The thin spout also keeps the dried mess from getting on the inside, unlike cans.