Finishes and Finishing

Don't be intimidated by the finishing process. We'll guide you to the right finish for your project—polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, and more—and show you how to get picture-perfect, repeatable results.

Most Recent

Oil vs. Film, Choose Your Finish
When it's time to apply a knockout finish, there are a lot of contenders. Some can take a punch; some bounce back fast. Here's how to choose the one that's a fair match for your project.
Finishing Brush Tips
Still handy after all these years
Show Off Figure with Dye
Quilted maple and other figured woods gain depth as well as brilliant color when you choose this type of stain. Here's everything you need to know for success.
Shellac: A Classic Finish for Today's Woodworker
Ease of use along with many other advantages make shellac a must-have for any workshop.
Is wood glue a can-do with dyed woods?
I’m going to build a jewelry box and use dye to add color. I’d like to dye all the small parts, such as the tray dividers, before assembly to make it easier. Will glue adhere to dyed wood?
Low-cost spray finishing
Whether you’re applying paint or a clear topcoat, check out these simple options for laying down a smooth sprayed-on finish.
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More Finishes and Finishing

All About Lacquers
Learn why pros shoot lacquer, and the differences in the various products labeled as lacquer before deciding if this finish suits your next project.
Save time with an all-in-one stain and finish?
On the surface they seem like a time saver, but there are some pros and cons.
How can you eliminate brush marks when finishing?

When applying gloss polyurethane varnish to my latest project, I wound up with brush marks. What should I have done differently?