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Boiled linseed oil and 100% tung oil are the two widely available drying oils. Though called “drying oils” both dry adequately only when applied very thin. If the excess isn’t wiped off after [...]

When it comes to finishing products, what happens in California doesn’t stay in California. It usually spreads across the country. So when a California friend emailed to tell me that denatured [...]

I know that a lot of readers use shellac for finishing. Of all finishes, shellac is probably the easiest to use when it comes to cleaning and storing brushes because shellac dissolves easily in [...]

Distressing or aging wood can come in many forms, whether it's a color change or physical wear. Here some tips for achieving different effects.

Our finishing expert shares some tips gained from a house-painter friend.

Our finishing expert, Bob Flexner, describes the techniques he's been testing to correct warped boards.

A persistent myth in the woodworking community is that you should finish both sides of wood, especially tabletops, to reduce the likelihood of warping.

How do you remove Scotch Tape adhesive without damaging the plastic underneath? Join our finishing expert as he finds a solution to this sticky situation.

Cherry is notorious for blotching, with all sorts of methods suggested for preventing it. But it’s important to keep in mind that “blotching” is simply the opposite of “beautiful figure.”

What is corning and how do you prevent it from happening? Our finishing expert Bob Flexner tells you how to avoid this common sanding problem.

Learn how to prevent the finish from peeling at the edges of your under-sink kitchen cabinets. Proper spraying technique is key to protecting your door and drawer edges.

A relative of mine wanted to know what finish is best to use on an outdoor oak bench he intended to make. Was it spar varnish, or is there something better?