Understanding Wood Finishes: Protecting and Enhancing Your Furniture

Understanding Wood Finishes: Protecting and Enhancing Your Furniture

Wood has been a staple in furniture-making for centuries but finding a durable and effective finish to protect and enhance its beauty has always been a challenge. Various finishes have been developed over time, each offering different levels of protection, sheen, and character.


Types of Wood Finishes

There are several types of wood furniture finishes, including:

  • Lacquer – Provides a strong, glossy, and protective coating.
  • Varnish – Offers a durable, clear finish that enhances the wood grain.
  • Oil – Penetrates the wood to nourish and protect from within.
  • Hard Wax Oil – Combines the benefits of oil and wax for durability and a natural feel.
  • Wax – Provides a soft, low-sheen finish that enhances the wood’s natural look.

Chunk Monkey’s Finishing Process

At Chunk Monkey, we take pride in crafting high-quality rustic furniture with a smooth and refined finish. Our process begins with carefully planing the timber to remove twists and imperfections. We then hand-sand each piece to achieve a smooth surface, rounding off all edges for a comfortable, user-friendly feel. 

To seal and protect the wood, we use premium Fiddes Hard Wax Oil, applying multiple coats with light sanding in between. This process ensures a durable yet natural-looking finish that highlights the beauty of the wood grain. For added protection and a soft, smooth texture, we finish with Fiddes Supreme Wax, which enhances the furniture’s rustic appeal.

Fiddes Wax Table Care

Our Standard Stains

We offer four distinct stains, each bringing its own unique character to our furniture: 

  • Walnut Stain – A rich, deep brown finish that is currently trending, adding warmth and sophistication to any space.
Walnut Stain Chunk Monkey
  • Farmhouse Stain – A lighter, natural tone that closely resembles raw scaffold boards, perfect for a more rustic aesthetic.
Farmhouse Stain Chunk Monkey
  • Light Oak Stain – An excellent choice for those looking to match existing light oak furniture while maintaining a bright, airy feel.
Light Oak Stain
  • Charcoal Stain – A bold, modern finish that adds a contemporary edge to our rustic furniture.
Charcoal Stain Chunk Monkey

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Home

The right finish depends on your style preference and functional needs. Whether you love the deep tones of walnut, the modern appeal of charcoal, or the natural look of farmhouse and light oak stains, each option enhances the wood’s beauty while providing lasting protection.

At Chunk Monkey, we are committed to delivering high-quality, handcrafted furniture with finishes that stand the test of time. Explore our range and find the perfect piece to complement your home.

Chunk Two Dining Table Light Oak
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