How to Finish Your Woodworking Projects Like a Pro

Finishing is the final touch that turns a basic woodworking project into a masterpiece. Here’s how to finish your woodworking projects like a pro.

1. Start with Proper Sanding Before applying any finish, ensure your wood is smooth. Start with a coarse grit and work your way to a fine grit.
2. Choose the Right Finish Depending on the project, you might want a natural oil finish, stain, lacquer, or polyurethane. Each has its own look and protective qualities.
3. Apply Evenly Use a clean brush, cloth, or sprayer to apply your finish. Work in thin, even layers, allowing each to dry properly before adding the next.
4. Buff and Polish Once your finish has dried, a light buffing with fine steel wool can give it a silky feel. Follow up with a soft cloth to polish.
5. Maintain Your Finished Project Keep your woodworking projects looking great by occasionally reapplying a protective coat or polish.

Band-Aid Brand Sterile Flexible Fabric Adhesive Bandages, Comfortable Flexible Protection & Wound Care for Minor Cuts & Scrapes, Pad Designed to Cushion Painful Wounds, One Size, 100 ct

(54254)

$7.56 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Holipick One Shoulder One Piece Swimsuit for Women Tummy Control Bathing Suits Modest Full Coverage Keyhole Swimwear

(3544)

$30.59 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

maamgic 2 in 1 Mens Swim Trunks 7 Inch Swim Shorts Swim Suits Board Shorts

(2051)

$29.99 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Sparthos Back Brace for Lower Back Pain - Immediate Relief from Sciatica, Herniated Disc, Scoliosis - Breathable Design With Lumbar Support Pad - For Home & Lifting At Work - For Men & Women - (Large)

(62010)

$29.97 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Band-Aid Brand Tru-Stay Adhesive Pads, Large Sterile Bandages for Wound Care, Large Size, 10 ct

(64562)

$3.77 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Women's Lightweight Hiking Cargo Shorts Quick Dry Athletic Shorts for Camping Travel Golf with Zipper Pockets Water Resistant

(6024)

$22.90 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Band-Aid Brand Flexible Fabric Adhesive Bandages, Comfortable Flexible Protection & Wound Care for Minor Cuts & Scrapes, First Aid Bandage with a Wildflower Design, Assorted Sizes, 30 ct

(1834)

$3.77 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Under Armour Men's Tech 2.0 V-Neck Short-Sleeve T-Shirt

(1915)

$11.83 (as of May 17, 2025 00:23 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)