7 essential timber finishes to perfect your custom furniture

When it comes to custom-made furniture, the finish can make all the difference. It’s not just about aesthetics; the right timber finish protects your piece, and ensures it stands the test of time. Whether crafting a sleek modern dining table or a rustic bookshelf, choosing the right finish is crucial for the look and longevity of your furniture. But with so many options available, how do you know which one is best for your project?

In this guide, we’ll explore seven of the most popular timber finishes. From glossy, high-shine surfaces to natural, matte looks, these finishes can dramatically change the feel of your pieces. Read on to discover how each finish works, and which one suits your furniture’s needs best. 

What is a timber finish and how does it work?

A timber finish is a protective layer applied to wood surfaces to enhance both its durability and appearance. It serves as a shield for the wood, protecting it from environmental factors like moisture, dirt, and oils, which could cause stains, swelling, or even warping over time. But finishes also play a vital role in highlighting the natural beauty of the wood. They can deepen the color of the timber, accentuate the grain, or provide a glossy sheen, depending on the finish you choose.

Wood is a naturally porous material, meaning that it can absorb moisture and other substances, leading to potential damage. This is where finishes come in. By filling the wood’s pores and bonding to the surface, finishes create a barrier that prevents these harmful elements from causing damage.

Timber finishes generally fall into two main categories: penetrating finishes and surface finishes. Penetrating finishes, such as oils, soak into the wood’s pores to enhance its natural look and feel, while surface finishes, like varnish, polyurethane, and lacquer, form a protective layer on top of the wood. Even within the same type of timber, individual pieces can absorb and react to finishes differently. This is particularly true for penetrating finishes like oils, which rely on the wood’s porosity to bond and enhance its appearance.

How timber finishes affect the aging of wood

Over time, all wood will change due to environmental factors such as light exposure, moisture, and air. For instance, hardwoods like oak or walnut may darken or develop a patina, while other types of wood may lose some of their vibrancy. The aging process, though natural, can sometimes result in discolouration or other forms of damage.

In most native Australian timbers, the aging process is relatively rapid regardless of the finish used. These timbers tend to darken over time and develop a more uniform appearance. UV rays play the biggest role in this process, as prolonged exposure accelerates the color change and aging of the wood. While some finishes can slow down this process by blocking UV rays, they cannot stop it entirely.

Certain finishes can enhance the aging process, adding character to the timber over time. For instance, oil finishes, while initially providing a matte or satin look, allow the wood to mature and develop a rich patina. This deepening of colour over time is one of the reasons oil finishes are so loved by furniture makers and collectors alike.

Overall, while the natural aging of wood can’t be stopped entirely, the right finish will allow your furniture to maintain its beauty for much longer, allowing it to age gracefully and adding to its charm as the years go by.

Timber finishes come in various forms, each offering unique benefits to suit different types of wood and purposes. Let’s have a look at seven of the most popular finishes. 

Oil finishes - a classic choice

Oil finishes are one of the most popular and timeless options for custom furniture. They penetrate deeply into the wood, enhancing its natural grain and texture while providing a subtle, matte finish. Ideal for those who prefer a more rustic, natural look, oil finishes allow the wood’s true beauty to shine.

Appearance	Satin to matte, enhances natural grain
Protection level	Moderate, water-resistant, but not waterproof
Durability	Moderate, may require reapplication over time
Application	Brush, rag, or cloth applied with gentle rubbing
Suitable wood types	Oak, walnut, teak, and other hardwoods

Benefits of oil finishes

Oil finishes provide an exceptional way to highlight the natural grain of the wood. They are easy to apply and give a soft, satin finish that enriches the wood's color without masking its inherent beauty. Oil finishes also offer a level of water resistance, making them great for furniture that sees moderate use, like coffee tables or sideboards.

Maintenance of oil finishes

Oil finishes require some maintenance to keep the wood looking its best. Over time, oil finishes can dry out and may need reapplication, especially in high-traffic areas. Regular cleaning and applying a fresh coat of oil will ensure the finish remains protective and vibrant. Be sure to wipe off excess oil to avoid build-up.

“Tung oil, one of the most common oil finishes, is derived from the nuts of the tung tree and has been used for over 2,000 years to preserve wood surfaces.”

Wax - a soft and natural look

Wax finishes are known for their silky smooth texture and rich, subtle sheen. They provide a beautiful, low-gloss finish, ideal for furniture pieces where a soft, vintage look is desired. Wax finishes are particularly popular for smaller pieces or those with intricate detailing.

Appearance	Soft, low-gloss, smooth velvety finish
Protection level	Low, provides a protective layer but vulnerable to moisture
Durability	Moderate, may wear over time and need reapplication
Application	Apply with a soft cloth, buff to a shine
Suitable wood types	Softwoods like pine, and finer hardwoods like cherry

Benefits of wax finishes

Wax finishes give furniture a smooth, luxurious feel. It’s perfect for creating a classic, antique appearance, with a soft sheen that enhances the wood's natural texture. Wax is also simple to apply and doesn’t require complex techniques, making it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts.

Maintenance of wax finishes

While wax finishes are beautiful, they require regular touch-ups. Wax can wear off in high-use areas, so expect to reapply it occasionally. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth, and buffing the surface will bring back its signature shine. However, wax finishes don’t offer significant water resistance, so extra care should be taken in more exposed environments.

Varnish - High-gloss protection for a polished look

Varnish is a go-to finish for those seeking a durable, high-gloss protective coating. Varnish creates a hard, impermeable surface that helps protect wood from stains, and moisture. It is typically used on furniture that requires robust protection, such as dining tables or kitchen cabinets.

Appearance	High-gloss to satin finish, reflective
Protection level	High, water-resistant
Durability	High, resistant to wear and tear
Application	Brush or spray, multiple layers required
Suitable wood types	Teak, mahogany, and oak

Benefits of varnish

Varnish provides excellent protection from water and dust, making it ideal for surfaces that endure heavy use. It offers a sleek, glossy finish that gives furniture a polished, sophisticated appearance. Varnish is a great choice for pieces that need long-lasting durability, especially in high-traffic areas.

Maintenance of varnish

Varnish is low-maintenance in terms of regular upkeep, but it can become scratched or damaged over time. To restore its appearance, a light sanding and reapplication of varnish may be necessary. For regular cleaning, use a damp cloth to avoid stripping the finish, and always protect the surface from heavy impacts.

Polyurethane - Tough protection for high-traffic furniture

Polyurethane is a synthetic finish known for its durability and resistance to moisture. Available in both oil-based and water-based formulas, polyurethane provides a tough, protective layer on wood. It’s an excellent choice for furniture in areas with heavy foot traffic or exposure to spills, like kitchen or bathroom furniture.

Appearance	Glossy to satin, varies depending on formulation
Protection level	Very high, highly resistant to water and stains
Durability	Very high, long-lasting and tough
Application	Brush or spray, requires multiple coats
Suitable wood types	All wood types, especially hardwoods

Benefits of polyurethane

Polyurethane is extremely durable and water-resistant, making it perfect for high-use furniture. It resists stains, and moisture, which is crucial for protecting pieces exposed to spills or rough handling. It’s also easy to clean and maintain, making it an ideal finish for busy households.

Maintenance of polyurethane

Polyurethane finishes are low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning to keep them looking their best. In case of damage, the finish can be sanded down and recoated. However, if scratches appear, a new layer of polyurethane may need to be applied to restore its strength and shine.

Shellac - A natural and eco-friendly choice

Shellac is a natural finish made from the secretion of the lac bug, offering a warm, amber-toned finish to wood. It’s traditionally used for finer, detailed work and provides a beautiful glossy or satin finish, depending on the application. While shellac offers limited protection, it is ideal for preserving vintage furniture pieces or achieving a unique look.

Appearance	Glossy, warm amber tone
Protection level	Low, provides limited moisture protection
Durability	Moderate, prone to scratches
Application	Brush, sprayed, or rubbed on with cloth
Suitable wood types	Antique or delicate hardwoods like mahogany or cherry

Benefits of shellac

Shellac offers a warm, glossy finish that’s highly valued for its rich color. It enhances the natural beauty of the wood and is often used for furniture restoration. It’s an eco-friendly option and dries quickly, making it perfect for those seeking a natural, non-toxic finish.

Maintenance of shellac

Shellac finishes require periodic reapplication, especially in high-use areas. Since shellac is prone to damage from heat, alcohol, and water, care should be taken to avoid exposure to these elements. It can be restored by gently sanding and applying a fresh coat.

Stain - adding colour and depth

Stains are used to enhance or change the color of wood, giving it a richer or more uniform appearance. While stains do not provide significant protection on their own, they are often paired with a topcoat finish for added durability. Staining can bring out the natural beauty of the wood or create a consistent color across different pieces.

Appearance	Can vary from light to dark, depending on the stain
Protection level	Low, requires a topcoat for protection
Durability	Moderate, depending on the topcoat
Application	Applied with a cloth, brush, or sponge
Suitable wood types	Softwoods and hardwoods like oak, pine, or maple

Benefits of stain

Stains allow you to customize the color of your timber, whether you want to darken it or enhance its natural undertones. They bring out the wood's grain, giving it depth and character. Stains can also be used to match existing furniture or create a uniform color for a cohesive look.

Maintenance of stain

Since stains do not provide protection on their own, it’s important to apply a protective finish over the stained wood. Regular cleaning and re-coating of the finish will help maintain the color and prevent fading or discoloration.

Lacquer - durable and high-gloss

Lacquer is a fast-drying finish that provides a hard, high-gloss finish with excellent durability. It’s commonly used for high-end furniture, offering a sleek and smooth surface. Lacquer is often used for its glossy appearance and its ability to resist moisture and dust.

Appearance	High-gloss, smooth finish
Protection level	High, resistant to water and heat
Durability	High, very durable
Application	Spray or brush, requires multiple coats
Suitable wood types	Hardwoods like cherry, maple, or walnut

Benefits of lacquer

Lacquer is known for its sleek, polished finish that can last for many years. It’s resistant to wear and tear, making it a great option for furniture exposed to heavy use. Lacquer’s high-gloss appearance adds sophistication and depth to any piece, making it ideal for modern, contemporary designs.

Maintenance of lacquer

Lacquer finishes are easy to maintain with regular dusting and cleaning using a soft cloth. If the surface becomes scratched or damaged, it may need to be lightly sanded and recoated. Since lacquer is resistant to moisture, cleaning is straightforward, but care should still be taken to avoid heavy impacts that can damage the surface.

Comparative table of finishes

	Oil	Wax	Varnish	Polyurethane	Shellac	Stain	Lacquer
Appearance	Satin to matte, enhances natural grain	Soft, low-gloss, smooth velvety finish	High-gloss to satin finish, reflective	Glossy to satin, varies depending on formulation	Glossy, warm amber tone	Can vary from light to dark, depending on the stain	High-gloss, smooth finish
Protection level	Moderate, water-resistant, but not waterproof	Low, provides a protective layer but vulnerable to moisture	High, water-resistant	Very high, highly resistant to water and stains	Low, provides limited moisture protection	Low, requires a topcoat for protection	High, resistant to water and heat
Durability	Moderate, may require reapplication over time	Moderate, may wear over time and need reapplication	High, resistant to wear and tear	Very high, long-lasting and tough	Moderate, prone to scratches	Moderate, depending on the topcoat	High, very durable
Application	Brush, rag, or cloth applied with gentle rubbing	Apply with a soft cloth, buff to a shine	Brush or spray, multiple layers required	Brush or spray, requires multiple coats	Brush, sprayed, or rubbed on with cloth	Applied with a cloth, brush, or sponge	Spray or brush, requires multiple coats
Suitable wood types	Oak, walnut, teak, and other hardwoods	Softwoods like pine, and finer hardwoods like cherry	Teak, mahogany, and oak	All wood types, especially hardwoods	Antique or delicate hardwoods like mahogany or cherry	Softwoods and hardwoods like oak, pine, or maple	Hardwoods like cherry, maple, or walnut

Understanding timber finishes is key to enhancing both the appearance and durability of your custom furniture. The right finish not only brings out the natural beauty of the wood but also protects it from wear and tear, ensuring it lasts for years. Whether you’re after a high-gloss shine or a more natural matte look, it’s important to select a finish that aligns with the function and style of your piece.

By choosing the appropriate finish, you can preserve the beauty and integrity of your furniture, allowing it to age gracefully while remaining sturdy and vibrant. Take the time to consider the needs of your wood and what kind of protection it requires. If you're unsure about which finish is best for your project, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help with any questions or guidance you may need.