Wood Finishing Techniques:
A Step-by-Step Guide for a Perfect Finish
Written by Abe Miller on August 22, 2023
Hey there!
Abe Miller here, and today we’re talking about something every woodworker needs to master—wood finishing techniques.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, knowing how to properly finish your wood can elevate your projects from "eh" to "wow."
Trust me, it's not just about slapping on some stain and calling it a day—there’s a method to this madness!
In this post, we’re going to cover the essentials: sanding, staining, sealing, oiling, waxing, and a few pro tips to make sure your project turns out looking amazing.
So, grab your sandpaper and coffee, and let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of wood finishing!
1. Sanding: The Foundation of a Good Finish
First things first—sanding is where it all begins. If you rush this part, no finish will save your project. Sanding smooths out imperfections, opens the wood grain, and helps the finish adhere better.
Start with a lower grit, like 80 or 100, to knock down any rough spots or tool marks, and then gradually work your way up to 220 grit for a super smooth finish.
Pro Tip: Always sand in the direction of the grain. Sanding against the grain can leave scratches that show up after you apply stain or finish, and no one wants that. Also, use a sanding block or an orbital sander for even pressure—your hands can create uneven spots.
2. Staining: Bringing Out the Color
Once you’ve got your wood nice and smooth, it’s time to think about color.
Staining is the process of adding pigment to the wood while still showing off the grain. This is where you can customize the look of your project, whether you’re going for a rustic, dark walnut look or a lighter, natural pine finish.
There are two main types of stains:
Oil-based stains: These are popular because they penetrate deep into the wood and provide a long-lasting finish. They also dry slower, giving you more time to work with the color.
Water-based stains: These dry faster and are easier to clean up, but they don’t penetrate as deeply, which means the color may not last as long. However, they’re eco-friendly and less smelly!
When applying stain, use a clean cloth or brush to wipe it on, then quickly wipe off the excess with a rag. The longer you leave the stain on before wiping, the darker the color will be. But be careful not to overdo it—too much stain can lead to a blotchy or uneven finish.
Pro Tip: Always test the stain on a scrap piece of wood first. Wood types absorb stain differently, and what looks good on oak might look completely different on pine.
3. Sealing: Protecting Your Hard Work
After the stain has dried (usually after 24 hours for oil-based stains), it’s time to seal your project. Sealing protects the wood from moisture, scratches, and general wear and tear. There are a few different types of sealers you can use, depending on the look and durability you want:
Polyurethane: This is one of the most common sealers for DIY projects because it’s durable and easy to apply. You can choose between a gloss, satin, or matte finish, depending on the look you’re going for.
Lacquer: Lacquer gives a hard, durable finish with a high gloss, but it can be tricky to apply. You’ll often need to use a spray gun for best results.
Shellac: This gives a beautiful, natural finish, but it’s not as durable as polyurethane or lacquer. It’s great for pieces that won’t see heavy use, like picture frames or decorative items.
When applying any sealer, the key is to apply thin, even coats. Use a brush or a foam applicator, and always follow the grain of the wood. Let each coat dry completely (usually 4-6 hours) before lightly sanding with a fine-grit sandpaper (like 320 grit) and applying another coat.
Pro Tip: Don’t skip the sanding between coats—it helps the next coat adhere better and gives you a smoother finish in the end.
4. Oiling: For a Natural Look
If you’re going for a more natural look, oiling might be the way to go. Oil finishes penetrate the wood and enhance the grain without adding a glossy top layer. The most popular oils for wood finishing are:
Tung oil: This is a natural oil that penetrates deep into the wood and provides a waterproof finish. It’s a bit time-consuming because it requires multiple coats and takes a while to dry, but the result is a beautifully rich, warm finish.
Linseed oil: Another natural option, linseed oil is easy to apply and leaves a soft, matte finish. It’s great for indoor furniture but doesn’t offer much protection against water or heat, so avoid using it on kitchen counters or outdoor pieces.
Danish oil: This is a blend of oil and varnish that offers the best of both worlds—it penetrates the wood like oil but adds a bit of protection like varnish.
When applying oil, use a clean cloth to rub it into the wood, let it sit for about 15 minutes, then wipe off the excess. Repeat this process for multiple coats, letting each coat dry before applying the next.
Pro Tip: Oiled finishes need maintenance. You’ll want to reapply oil periodically to keep the wood looking fresh and protected.
5. Waxing: For a Soft, Natural Sheen
If you’re after a soft, vintage look, waxing is a great option. Wood wax provides a subtle sheen and is super easy to apply. It’s perfect for decorative pieces, tabletops, or furniture that won’t see heavy use.
To apply wax, use a soft cloth or a wax brush to rub the wax into the wood in small, circular motions. Let it dry for a few minutes, then buff it out with a clean cloth for a smooth, soft finish.
Pro Tip: Wax isn’t as durable as other finishes, so it’s best for pieces that won’t get a lot of wear and tear. You can also apply wax on top of other finishes, like polyurethane, for extra protection and a softer look.
6. Finishing Techniques for Special Effects
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use a few special techniques to give your project a unique look:
Distressing: This technique gives wood a weathered, vintage look. You can achieve this by hitting the wood with chains, hammering nails into it, or sanding down the edges.
Whitewashing: Perfect for a farmhouse or coastal look, whitewashing involves mixing paint with water to create a translucent wash that lightens the wood without covering the grain.
Burnishing: This technique uses friction to create a polished finish. You can use steel wool, a cloth, or even a burnishing tool to rub the wood and achieve a smooth, shiny surface without a topcoat.
Final Thoughts
Finishing wood is an art form in itself. Whether you’re working on a small DIY project or a large piece of furniture, the finishing technique you choose will make all the difference. Just remember, the key to a great finish is patience—take your time with each step, and don’t rush the process.
Thanks for reading, and happy woodworking! If you have any questions, feel free to contact me by email. Be sure to check out more tips and guides on my other blog posts. Until next time, keep building!
—Abe
