Quck answer
To finish a used whiskey barrel, follow these steps:
1. Empty the barrel completely and rinse it with water to remove any remaining whiskey.
2. Sand the exterior of the barrel to remove any dirt or stains.
3. Apply a coat of wood stain or varnish to enhance the appearance and protect the wood.
4. Let the stain or varnish dry completely before proceeding.
5. Inspect the interior of the barrel for any mold or mildew and clean it if necessary.
6. Fill the barrel with water and let it soak for 24 hours to rehydrate the wood.
7. Empty the water and fill the barrel with desired liquid (such as whiskey or wine) to age and impart flavors.
8. Store the barrel in a cool, dark place and periodically check the liquid for taste and maturity.
You can repurpose an old whiskey barrel for various indoor and outdoor uses such as a trash can, rain barrel, firewood storage, or furniture. You can buy used whiskey barrels from home improvement stores for approximately $30. Refinishing a used whiskey barrel is easy with some cleaning, sanding, and a couple of coats of polyurethane sealer to make it look new again.
Directions
Step 1
Choose a well-ventilated work area.
Step 2
Examine the barrel hoops and tighten them with screws if they are loose. Attach them securely to the barrel staves.
Step 3
Clean the barrel hoops with a wire brush to remove any rust. Use a wire brush or sander to clean the whiskey barrel and remove any debris or splinters.
Step 4
Drill four or five holes in an X pattern in the barrel’s bottom for drainage using a 1-inch wood drill bit.
Step 5
Wipe away all sawdust and debris from the whiskey barrel using a tack cloth or rag.
Step 6
Apply an anti-rust primer to the barrel hoops. Protect the whiskey barrel’s wood by covering it with tape or paper while painting the hoops.
Step 7
Protect the whiskey barrel hoops with tape and stain the wood of the barrel. After the stain dries, lightly sand the wood and use a tack cloth to remove any extra sawdust. Apply another coat of stain and let it dry.
Step 8
Apply the first coat of polyurethane sealer and let it dry completely. Lightly sand the barrel and use the tack cloth to remove any extra debris. Apply a second coat of sealer.