If you are math oriented, the finish cures with a logarithmic curve. This
means that in a month, it is 98+% cured, however, within a week, it is
probably 80% to 90% cured. It is best to wait a month, but realistically,
you can rub it out in a couple of weeks. You must remember however, that
poly is not as hard as lacquer or shellac and cannot be rubbed out to as
glossy a finish.

Preston

"stoutman" .@. wrote in message news:1yTOb.83730$Rc4.301394@attbi_s54...
How long do you let your poly (final coat) cure before smoothing out with
0000 steel wool or pumice?

I don't have very much patience with finishes. I want it finished
yesterday. I like the look of poly after it's finished with pumice. Is
48
hours enough? Flexner says wait at least a month in Understanding Wood
Finishes. How long do you wait??