Before starting to apply any wood finish, the surface of the timber must be well prepared. The finished result will be spoiled if careful attention is not paid to this. Grease, damp, dirt and dust will ruin the finish and even something as small as a hair can cause a problem. Finishes always magnify any minor defect in the finished wood. The surface must be smooth and completely clean. Rub it gently with a fine grade abrasive paper, or steel wool, but always work only in the direction of the grain.
There is a large range of wood finishing products available in DIY shops but preparations like polyurethane varnish, Danish oil, silicone wax and teak oil are probably the easiest to use without practise.
Polyurethane varnish and Danish oil will give the wood heat resistance and protect against water damage and staining. They can also fill the grain of most timber, except the coarsest of woods and so enhance the finish. Wax and teak oil are much quicker to apply but do not give the wood the same protection from damage.
French polishing requires skill and experience and it is rarely used in making furniture items, unless it is for reproduction antiques. Most DIY woodworkers cannot French polish and have no need to but anyone who wants to learn to do it will require quality shellac and turpentine to start off. The best way to learn is by practising the finish on old wood off cuts.
Whatever finish is chosen it is important to keep the working area spotlessly clean, especially paying attention to stray dust around the workshop. Most woodworkers develop their own preferences and tend to use the same wood finishes each time.
The working area must be ventilated so that potentially inflammable fumes can escape easily. Gas heater, gas rings, pilot lights and cigarettes should be kept out of the area while using any of these volatile products. Always cover flooring and fabrics because it is really difficult to get some of these wood finishes off if they splash fabrics, or floors.
