DIY from a woman’s point of view

Wood Finishes

There are basically three types of finish that are generally used on interior woodwork and furniture.  In deciding which to use you should consider how much wear the surface receives, whether it is likely to be exposed to water and your own preferences as to the finished look.

Wood Stain is available in a variety of natural wood shades as well as a whole host of contemporary colours.  It is generally applied with either a brush or a lint free cloth and usually finished with an application of wax or varnish.

Wax is suitable for surfaces that won’t receive too much wear and tear and that won’t be exposed to water. Clear wax is ideal for applying over a previously stained surface, but it is available in a whole host of colours if you should prefer to do the staining and waxing at the same time.

Some waxes are designed to be applied with a soft cloth while others have a thinner consistency and can be applied with a brush.

Wood that has been finished with wax has, in my opinion, a warm, soft glow that cannot be achieved by varnish. The added advantage to a wax finish is that it can be “topped up” at any time by applying another coat - each succeeding coat gives a deeper and more lustrous finish so that your wood becomes even more beautiful with time and care.

Varnish is suitable for surfaces where a more hardwearing finish is required.  It will resist accidental spills without marking and can be easily wiped over with a damp cloth.  Like wax, varnish can be applied over a previously stained surface, or it can be bought coloured to do the job all in one.

Available in gloss and satin finishes, varnish may be spirit based or water based and is applied with a brush. Cleaning of brushes and accidental spills is with water and a little detergent in the case of water based products; you would use white spirit followed by a rinse with soapy water for spirit based products.