DIY Network

Finalizing Wood Finishes and Care Tips From "Wood Works" episode WWK-504

Once you've applied the top-coats of your wood finish, there are still some things you can do to enhance the look of the wood and the finish. In this segment, David Marks discusses methods and tips for finalizing wood finishes.

Safety Alert: Always wear protective gloves and ensure adequate ventilation when working with wood stains, solvents and other toxic solutions.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D
	Figure E

Finalizing a Wood Finish:

• To rub out a finish, you'll need some type of abrasive such as sandpapers (figure A), steel wool, finishing pads, abrasive powders or polishing compounds (figure B).

• For wet-sanding, a lubricant is used -- usually water or a mild solvent such as naphtha or paint thinner (figure C).

• Not all finishes need to be rubbed out. The process is intended to remove imperfections, smooth the surface and improve the existing finish and sheen. The sheen refers to the tendency of the surface to reflect light. Before beginning, you'll need to know decide on what type of sheen you desire -- flat, satin, semi-gloss or gloss.

• Once the finish cures, set the piece in an area of good lighting and begin with some 600-grit wet/dry sandpaper dipped into naphtha (figure D). Repeat the process, stepping up incrementally to finer grits of sandpaper -- 800 grit, then 1200.

• Next, spread pumice onto the surface (figure E) and spray on water. Rub the surface with a soft cloth, using medium pressure and following the direction of the grain, until the surface is level and has consistent scratch marks.

• Remove the slurry of abrasive and water using a clean, dry cloth. Use more pumice or a rottenstone if you desire a glossy finish.

• Finally use a new pad, lubricate and rub again, wipe with a clean cloth and buff with another soft cloth. For even more sheen and luster, finish off the process by applying some wax.

Care Tips

After investing time and energy into a fine wood finish, here are some simple suggestions for keeping your pieces looking new.

• Keep furniture out of direct sunlight.
  
• Keep furniture away from heat sources like fireplaces, wood stoves and heating vents.
  
• Avoid exposure to extreme fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
  
• Maintain the look of the wood with a mild cleaning solution, and wax the surface or polish with lemon oil.
  
• Encourage the use of drink coasters!

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