Wood Finishing: Techniques & Applied Finishing

Overview

Achieve flawless finishes on all your woodworking projects. Learn to choose the right materials and apply them by hand using the most effective techniques for a professional look.

Course Outline

1. 01: Introduction & Surface Preparation
   Meet your instructor, professional woodworking teacher Alan Turner. Learn how to properly prepare wood surfaces for finishing, including sharpening and using a cabinet scraper, sanding techniques, and raising the grain.
   Duration: 34 min
2. 02: Shellac
   Discover why shellac is a great choice for undercoats or topcoats. Alan will share his favorite pre-made shellac and demonstrate how to make and store your own. Learn two application methods: with a brush and with a pad to achieve even finishes.
   Duration: 32 min
3. 03: Sanding In an Oil/Varnish Mixture
   Understand when to use an oil/varnish mixture for finishing. Alan offers detailed instruction on how to sand in your finish, creating a slurry that enhances the wood grain.
   Duration: 19 min
4. 04: Building a Finish With an Oil/Varnish Mixture
   Build up your finish layer by layer after preparing your base coat. Learn which brushes work best and when to pad in your finish using a soft cloth. Get tips on handling and disposing of this volatile substance safely.
   Duration: 11 min
5. 05: Gel Varnish
   Explore the benefits of gel varnishes, suitable for full applications or touch-ups on damaged areas. Learn the proper techniques for application, troubleshooting tips, and how to remove excess varnish for a smooth finish.
   Duration: 13 min
6. 06: Waterborne Finishes
   Dive into waterborne finishes and discover why these low-VOC products are a safer alternative. See how to apply these finishes on various woods, including molded cabinet doors.
   Duration: 25 min
7. 07: Rubbing Out Your Finish
   After applying your finish, it’s important to rub it out to achieve a clean, streak-free appearance. Learn how long to wait before rubbing out, and discover techniques using steel wool and paste wax.
   Duration: 9 min