I'm with David,
Gloves, gloves, gloves! (The girl that does my nails screams that at me) I spread newspaper, and I have a pile of paper towels ready, already separated, and slightly damp. When I have got all the c**p off I buff it with a soft dry rag also. You have to let it dry. I like satin sheen as a finish, and Pecards to waterproof it.
ShirleyZ