A Simple Method For Creating The Perfect Wood Finish

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There are a number of stains, paints, oils, waxes, and varnishes that can be used to finish bare wood or change the existing appearance. Each has its strengths, though there are some terrible wood finishes to avoid at all costs. Traditionally, if you wanted the original grain and color to shine through, you would use natural tung oil or linseed oil. Unfortunately, if not applied carefully, they could leave a sticky residue. It can be rectified with spirit, but the process can become laborious. What's more, if the rags used to apply them aren't disposed of properly, they can spontaneously combust! 

Modern water-based polyurethane varnishes are safer and usually easier to use, but rather than soaking into the wood, they sit on the surface. It can sometimes seem as if the wood has been encased in plastic. They provide excellent protection, but not everyone likes that look.

One simple method for creating the perfect wood finish is to use a hard wax oil. These are made with natural ingredients, are easy for even complete beginners to apply, and with little effort produce a rich, attractive glow on anything from small craft projects to entire floors. They are usually hard-wearing, water- and heat-resistant, and many, like the popular Tried & True Original Wood Finish, are also food- and toy-safe.

As with any wood finishing, the better the prep, the better the final result. Sanding surfaces to 320 grit or better is often suggested, and remember, you should wear a mask while sanding wood. Generally speaking, hard wax oils can be used with a brush, rags (old cotton t-shirts are good), or a synthetic pad. A light coat is applied, allowed to soak into the wood for a few minutes (follow manufacturer's instructions carefully), and then wiped off with a clean cloth. The idea is that the hard wax oil penetrates and protects. It doesn't coat the surface like a varnish would. Some products claim to do the job in one coat, but many experts recommend two coats to benefit from the full richness and luster possible.

If you wanted to waterproof wood with all-natural ingredients, then historically you would have used beeswax. However, it's challenging to work with, so it's usually mixed with linseed oil and mineral spirits to soften it. Hard wax oils use the same principles, and they frequently incorporate a host of natural oils and waxes. These are polymerized (basically, combined into one) to create a wood finish that dries quickly, is simple to use, delivers the practical benefits mentioned above, and, equally importantly, produces stunning results.