Finishes and Finishing
Don't be intimidated by the finishing process. We'll guide you to the right finish for your project—polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, and more—and show you how to get picture-perfect, repeatable results.
The thought of applying finish to a project can be enough to kick up your pulse rate and blood pressure, especially when the project contains an “exotic” wood full of natural oils.
When we found out about Tim Vander Well’s skill as a decorative artist, we asked him to show us his wood graining technique.
Professional furniture finishers and restorers know how to make their repairs disappear within the grain and color of surrounding wood.
I make a lot of cutting boards and typically apply an edible oil, such as pure tung oil or food-grade mineral oil, to enhance the appearance of the wood and protect it.
To create a surface free of runs, sags, and brush marks, consider wipe-on finishes. Once you get comfortable with them, you may never clean a brush again. Here’s what you need to know.
Frustrated by different-colored boards of the same species? Wondering how to blend sapwood with heartwood, or match an old finish? Solving those problems is easier than you might think.
Tip of the Day
Help birch flames look hot
Sealing flame-pattern birch with boiled linseed oil to show off the grain can darken the whole... read more