DIY Network

Dovetail Bench: Finishing Touches From "Wood Works" episode WWK-602

This sitting bench has a contemporary feel, but was inspired by ancient Egyptian design.

The final step in the creation of the dovetail bench is the application of a wood finish. To highlight the contrasting woods, and to protect the bench surface, we used a finish of tung oil, linseed oil and urethane.

Materials:

Tung-oil wood finish
Paint brushes
0000-gauge steel wool
Rags

Safety Alert: Always wear protective gloves, and ensure adequate ventilation, when working with wood stains, solvents and other toxic solutions. When working with some sprays and chemicals, a respirator mask may be required.

advertisement

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Dovetail Bench: Tung-Oil Finish

• The fine sanding we did earlier smoothed the grain of the wood. Even unfinished, the distinctive grain of the maple and walnut are visible (figure A).

• For the wood finish, we opted to use tung oil in combination with linseed oil and urethane. This combination will protect the wood and provide a smooth, satiny finish.

• Apply the finish with a brush and clean rag (figure B).

• Wipe away the excess, buff the finish dry and let the finish cure.

• Between each coat of tung oil, rub the surface with "0000" steel wool to soften the feel.

• Follow this pattern for 5 to 6 coats of tung-oil finish.

  Once finished, the contrasting woods are highlighted dramatically at the points where the dovetail joints come together (figure C).

RESOURCES :

Woodworking Techniques: Best Methods for Building Furniture from Fine Woodworking
Author: Editors of Fine Woodworking magazine
Publisher: Taunton Press
ISBN: 1561583456

David Marks Website
David Marks, DIY's Wood Works host, is a master woodworker. For more information on cut sizes and project details, please contact him via his Website at www.djmarks.com

Fine Woodworking
A magazine devoted to high-quality craftsmanship in woodworking.
The Taunton Press Inc.
Website: www.taunton.com