Finishing small wood projects can feel overwhelming, especially with so many products and techniques available. But don’t worry—once you understand the basics, it’s much easier than it seems. Whether you're sprucing up indoor furniture, crafting wooden toys, or creating decor pieces, the right finish can enhance the beauty of the wood while protecting it from wear and tear. Here’s everything you need to know about easily finishing wood for durability, scratch resistance, and achieving your desired sheen.
Prepping Your Wood: The Foundation of a Good Finish
Before diving into finishes, proper prep work is key. Skipping this step is like painting without priming—it just doesn’t stick well.
- Sanding: Start with coarse sandpaper (80-120 grit) to remove rough spots, then move to finer grits, and finish with very fine grits 220-320) for a smooth even surface.( for a smooth surface. Always sand with the grain to avoid scratches.
- Cleaning: Dust and debris can ruin the final look. Use a tack or damp microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface.
- Conditioning: For woods like pine or cherry, applying a pre-stain wood conditioner ensures even absorption and prevents blotchy finishes.
- Testing: Always test your chosen finish on a scrap piece of the same wood to preview the colour and sheen.
What Finish to Use for Different Needs
The best finish depends on how the piece will be used. Let’s break it down:
1. Indoor Furniture
For indoor furniture, durability and scratch resistance are essential.
- Recommended Finish: Polyurethane (oil-based or water-based) is a go-to option. Oil-based finishes offer a warm, rich tone, while water-based ones dry faster and are less yellow.
- Pros: Highly durable and resistant to scratches and stains.
- Cons: Longer drying times for oil-based varieties.
2. Wooden Toys
Wooden toys require a finish that’s safe and durable.
- Recommended Finish: Food-grade mineral oil or shellac. Both are non-toxic and easy to reapply.
- Pros: Safe for children and environmentally friendly.
- Cons: Require regular reapplication.
3. Outdoor Wood Furniture
Outdoor furniture faces weather extremes, so the finish needs to provide excellent water resistance.
- Recommended Finish: Spar varnish or exterior-grade polyurethane. These finishes expand and contract with temperature changes.
- Pros: Long-lasting and weatherproof.
- Cons: Require multiple coats for full protection.
Achieving the Right Sheen: Matte, Satin, or Gloss?
The sheen determines how much light reflects off the surface:
- Matte: Offers a natural, understated look. Ideal for rustic or vintage-style pieces.
- Satin: A subtle shine that’s versatile for most furniture.
- Gloss: Creates a high-shine, reflective surface—perfect for contemporary or decorative pieces. Wondering how to achieve a thick glossy finish? Multiple coats of polyurethane or epoxy resin, with sanding in between, will do the trick.
How to Apply Wood Finishes Like a Pro
1. Polyurethane
- Use a foam brush or lint-free cloth to apply thin, even coats.
- Allow 24 hours to dry between coats (or less for water-based finishes).
- Sand lightly with 320-grit sandpaper between coats to remove imperfections.
2. Shellac
- Apply with a natural bristle brush or pad in thin layers.
- Dries quickly, so work fast to avoid streaks.
- Buff with steel wool for a smooth finish.
3. Spar Varnish
- Use a natural bristle brush for outdoor pieces.
- Apply three to five coats for maximum protection, sanding lightly between each.
4. Mineral Oil
- Saturate a cloth and rub it into the wood, reapplying as needed until the wood stops absorbing.
- Wipe off excess and buff for a soft sheen.
Finishing Touches: Cleaning and Maintenance
Once your finish has cured, take these steps to maintain its beauty:
- Cleaning: Use a damp cloth for dusting; avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
- Reapplication: For oil-based finishes, periodic reapplication keeps the wood nourished.
- Repairs: For scratches, lightly sand the affected area and reapply the finish as needed.
Wrapping It Up
Finishing small wood projects doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right preparation, finish, and application technique, you can protect your pieces and make them shine (or keep them matte, if that’s your style). Ready to start your next project? Check out Sydney’s Journal for more DIY tips or visit our home page for handmade decor inspiration.
See How Ours Are Finished and Order Yours:
- Handmade Mantel Slipcovers
- Distressed Mantel Slipcovers
- Items to Decorate Your Mantel
- Solid Wood Couch Caddies
Got questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us. Happy finishing!
