Posted on June 9th, 2023

When it comes to creating masterpieces in wood, my craft transcends the ordinary boundaries of design and functionality. At Foxmoor Studio, nestled in the heart of Gainesboro, Tennessee, I bring the spirit of nature to life, transforming simple pieces of lumber into works of art. My portfolio ranges from Ambrosia maple monitor stands and Walnut monitor stands to the striking 'Wabi-sabi' solid walnut bench/seat, to modern floating nightstands and bedside tables in solid cherry. But, my creations are not just limited to these. With the bespoke furniture design and construction services I offer, each piece can be customized to your unique taste and preferences.

An integral aspect of my work as a woodworker is the finish that I apply to the furniture. The choice of finish not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the piece but also its durability and longevity. Today, I want to share with you some insights into the different types of wood finishes that I utilize in my creations, which not only enhance the natural beauty of the wood but also protect it from environmental elements.

To start, let's delve into the most traditional type of wood finish: oil. Oils, like linseed and tung oil, penetrate deep into the wood, enhancing its grain and lending a rich, warm glow. This type of finish is ideal for pieces such as the walnut monitor stand or the 'Wabi-sabi' solid walnut bench, which benefit from the added depth and texture.

Then we have varnish, a finish that consists of a solvent, resin, and drying oil. Varnish provides a strong, hard finish and is excellent for furniture pieces that need to withstand heavy use. For example, I often use varnish for our Modern floating nightstands/bedside tables in solid cherry due to its robust nature.

A slightly more modern take on the traditional oil finish is oil-varnish blends. This hybrid offers the benefits of both - the penetration of oil and the protection of varnish. It imparts a warm glow to the wood and also provides a layer of protection.

Lacquer is another type of finish that I frequently use. It dries quickly and offers a shiny, highly durable finish. It's particularly great for custom furniture designs where a high-gloss finish is desired.

Next on the list is Shellac, a natural finish that comes from the secretion of the lac bug. It provides a warm, glowing finish and is easy to repair. However, it's not as durable as some of the other finishes, so it's ideal for pieces that don't see heavy daily use.

Lastly, let's not forget about the wax finish. Wax doesn't provide as much protection as other finishes, but it gives an unbeatable soft, smooth feel to the furniture. It's an excellent choice for pieces like the Ambrosia maple monitor stand that benefit from a gentle touch.

Now that we've explored the different types of finishes, it's important to note that the choice of wood finish can drastically alter the overall look and feel of the furniture. Each finish imparts a different level of sheen, from matte to high gloss, and affects the color of the wood. But it's not just about the look; the finish also plays a crucial role in protecting the wood from damage, whether it's from water, heat, or everyday wear and tear.

Choosing the right finish for your custom furniture requires an understanding of the specific needs of the piece and your personal aesthetic preferences. That's where I come in. With my extensive experience in woodworking and a keen understanding of wood finishes, I can guide you in choosing the perfect finish for your custom furniture.

Whether you want to restore a cherished piece of furniture or design a new one altogether, the process is more than just cutting and assembling the wood. It is a journey, from understanding your requirements and translating them into a tangible design, selecting the right type of wood, to choosing the perfect finish that enhances the beauty and functionality of the piece.

At Foxmoor Studio, I believe in the power of collaboration and communication. I strive to ensure that each piece I create is not just a piece of furniture, but a reflection of your personality, lifestyle, and preferences. I spend countless hours meticulously crafting each detail, shaping the wood, sanding it to perfection, and finally applying the finish that will bring out the unique characteristics of the wood and make the furniture shine.

Sometimes, you might have a piece of furniture that you love but is looking a little worn. That's when my furniture restoration and repair services can come to your rescue. With the right finish and a bit of TLC, I can breathe new life into your furniture, restoring its former glory and ensuring it can be enjoyed for many more years.

A finish is more than just the final step in the process of creating furniture. It's the protective seal that safeguards the wood, the enhancer that brings out the wood's natural beauty, and the final touch that sets the piece apart. From oils and varnishes to lacquers and shellac, I use a variety of finishes, each offering different benefits and creating a unique look and feel. Understanding and choosing the right finish is as much a skill as crafting the furniture itself.

So, the next time you're thinking of buying a new piece of furniture, remember that the finish is as important as the design and the type of wood used. Whether you're looking for a sleek, modern walnut monitor stand, a 'Wabi-sabi' walnut bench exuding natural simplicity, or a custom-designed piece, don't forget to ask about the finish. Because, in the end, it's the finish that completes the piece, giving it character and style, and protecting it for years to come.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, at Foxmoor Studio, my mission is to create pieces that are as enduring as they are beautiful, and that starts with choosing the right finish. If you have any questions or would like to learn more about the different types of wood finishes for custom furniture, feel free to reach out. Whether you need a new piece of furniture or want to restore an existing one, I am here to help. You can get in touch with me at [email protected]. I am looking forward to helping you create or restore a piece of furniture that you'll love and cherish for years to come.