WOOD GRAVY: THE BEST WOOD FINISH EVER
Learn how to use “wood gravy” to fill open grain and create a glass-smooth finish on hardwoods. A simple wet-sanding technique that upgrades any woodworking project.
THE OIL FINISHES SCAM
Discover the truth behind tung and Danish oils—most are overpriced blends. Learn how to make your own pro-grade wood finish and save big.
THE CHALLENGES OF MIXING WOOD FINISHES
Mixing wood finishes doesn’t have to be a gamble—this guide breaks down which oils, polys, shellacs, and waxes play well together (and which don’t). With clear rules and pro tips, you’ll avoid sticky disasters and get the finish you actually want.
WILL CLEAR VARNISH CHANGE WOOD’S COLOR?
Some argue that wood finishes actually alter the appearance of natural wood by adding a yellow or amber hue. A piece of maple, for example, might be nearly white when bare, but depending on the finish you apply, it can turn yellow or even brown.
MAKE YOUR OWN WIPE-ON POLYURETHANE
A lot of new woodworkers buy wipe-on polyurethane because it promises to be easy to apply. And that’s true—it is easy to apply. But more experienced woodworkers rarely buy the pre-made stuff. Not because they don’t like wipe-on poly, but because they don’t see the point of paying extra for what is essentially regular polyurethane diluted with inexpensive mineral spirits. You can make it yourself for a lot less money.
A FINISH DURABLE ENOUGH FOR A WOODEN COUNTERTOP
In this article, I’m tackling one of the most common questions viewers ask: How do you choose and apply a durable finish for wooden countertops?
SEMIGLOSS VS GLOSS VS SATIN
Achieving a consistent satin or semi-gloss wood finish isn’t about the finish itself—it’s all in the flattening agents and how you mix and apply them. Properly stirring, layering, and even polishing satin finishes can give you predictable, beautiful results while maintaining clarity and control over sheen.
HOW PROS MAKE PINE LOOK GOOD WITH STAIN AND DYE
Learn how to prevent blotchy stains on pine and achieve a smooth, professional-looking finish. Discover expert tips using pre-stain conditioners, gel stains, and colored wax for flawless results.
DO YOU NEED WOOD GRAIN FILLER BEFORE YOU FINISH?
Grain filler smooths out open-pore woods like oak, ash, and walnut to create a mirror-like surface before finishing, making your projects look more polished and professional. Whether using water-based fillers, pastes, or oil slurries, proper application and multiple coats ensure even pores and better light reflection.
READ THIS BEFORE USING OIL-BASED POLY FINISHES!
Today, I want to talk about oil-based polyurethane. It’s a very durable finish that’s well-suited for both indoor and some outdoor projects. It’s not difficult to apply, but I think my method will give you the best results.
SAND LIKE A PRO
Sanding can make or break your project, as much as the joinery or the finish. And there’s a lot to learn if you want to get the best results. This post will cover everything you need to know—from what grits to use, to improving your technique—along with a few things that other videos and articles neglect to tell you. Stick with me until the end—you’re definitely going to learn something new!
THE SECRET TO SILKY SMOOTH FINISHES
Learn how to sand between coats for a smooth, professional wood finish. Discover tips for handling raised fibers, dust nibs, shrinkage, and solvents to achieve a flawless result.
THE LIES AND CONFUSION OF TUNG OIL WOOD FINISH
Tung oil can be one of the most beautiful natural wood finishes, but marketing hype and confusing blends have misled generations of woodworkers. This guide breaks down the differences between pure and blended tung oil, how to identify what’s in your can, and how to apply it properly for the best results.
THIS SIMPLE WOOD FINISH WILL SAVE YOU DAYS OF SHOP TIME! (SHELLAC)
For centuries, shellac was widely considered the best wood finish in the world. Then, modern finish manufacturers convinced us that shellac was old-fashioned. “That’s what your grandfather used! The modern woodworker uses polyurethane!”
AN ANCIENT WOOD FINISH FORMULA THAT CAN NOT BE MESSED UP!
Wood finishing can be a very intimidating subject for a lot of woodworkers, and I am often asked if there is a simple, effective finish that can't be messed up, doesn't take a lot of time, doesn't cost as much as the wood itself, and which looks great to the eye and is pleasing to the touch.