Finishing is a critical part of any woodworking project. Applying stains, seals, and topcoats properly helps protect the natural beauty of wood and enhances its richness and depth of color. As a beginner woodworker, having the right finishing tools and learning correct techniques will help you achieve professional-looking results. This guide covers must-have equipment including brushes, rollers, and spray guns for flawless finishes every time.
| Topic | Key Takeaways |
|---|---|
| Brushes | – Essential for staining wood with intricate details – Types include paintbrushes, stain brushes, varnish brushes – Use proper brush for each finish type |
| Rollers | – Quick application on large flat surfaces – Foam and mohair rollers best – Allow heavy application of finishes |
| Spray Guns | – Provide uniform coverage not possible with brushes – HVLP, airless electric and compressed air types – Learning curve to master technique |
| Choosing Tools | – Match tools to project size, surfaces, products used – Factor in skill level, workspace and budget |
| Where to Buy | – Hardware stores, woodworking stores, online retailers, rental shops – Comparison shop for best prices and selection |
Brushes for Applying Finishes
Brushes allow for careful application of finishes on smaller woodworking pieces. The three main types of brushes are:
- Paintbrushes – Best for water-based finishes like paints, stains, and water-based polyurethanes. Look for tapered bristle heads.
- Stain brushes – Designed for applying woodworking finishes to surfaces with texture. The bristles are thicker and less tapered.
- Varnish brushes – Made specifically for oil-based finishes like varnishes, lacquers and shellacs. They have thicker ferrules and stockier handles.
Natural bristles are best for oil-based finishes while synthetic nylon or polyester bristles work well for water-based products. Always use high-quality brushes for smooth flow and even application.
Technique Tips: * Lightly wet the brush in solvent like mineral spirits before dipping into oil-based products * Apply using the paintbrush method with long, light, even strokes along the wood grain
* Use smaller craft brushes for hard to reach areas * Never wipe or press too hard as bristles may leave visible streaks
Brushes allow great control for staining wood pieces with intricate details. They also minimize waste compared to rollers and sprayers.
Rollers for Applying Finishes
Paint rollers provide fast, efficient coverage on large flat surfaces like tables and dressers. Common types include:
- Foam rollers – Best for gloss and semi-gloss water-based finishes with smooth surfaces.
- Mohair rollers – Made from goat hair, ideal for oil-based finishes and surfaces with some texture.
- Lambs wool rollers – Softer alternative to mohair with similar oil-based finish capabilities.
Using a roller is straightforward. Dip into finish product and roll back and forth across project surface using long, steady strokes. Avoid excessive pressure and make sure to blend sections together for consistent, professional looking results.
Advantages of Rollers:
- Quick application compared to brushes
- Even coat on flat wood surfaces
- Ability to apply heavy layers of product
Be sure to choose the right nap thickness and always use high-density rollers to minimize dripping and splattering. Apply finishes in the direction of the wood grain whenever possible.
Spray Guns for Applying Finishes
Spray guns dispense a fine mist to achieve fast full coverage on all project surfaces. They allow for uniform applications not possible with brushes or rollers. Types include:
- HVLP spray guns – Use lower air pressure for better product atomization. Require an air compressor.
- Airless electric spray guns – Powered by electricity instead of air pressure. Good for outdoor use.
- Compressed-air spray guns – Rely solely on pressure from an air compressor to atomize finish.
Most have controls to adjust the fan spray shape and flow rate. Using proper spraying technique is crucial for flawless results:
- Always spray in continuous motion parallel to the project surface
- Maintain consistent distance from the wood as you spray back and forth
- Overlap each stroke to achieve uniform coverage
- Take safety precautions and wear a respirator mask to avoid inhaling toxic fumes
Benefits of Spray Guns:
- Full, smooth coverage not possible with brushes or rollers
- Efficient application for staining and finishing large projects
- Ability to spray difficult to reach areas like spindles and carved details
Be prepared for a learning curve when using spray equipment. Taking time to practice technique on scrap wood will pay off with professional quality finish results.
Choosing the Right Tools and Equipment
With various finishing tools available, make sure to select options suited to your skill level, project specifics, and types of products being used.
Important considerations include:
- Project size – Brushes for small items like boxes and rollers or sprayers for large furniture
- Surface complexity – Brushes to get into carved details that rollers or sprayers would miss
- Products used – Water-based acrylics applied with foam/synthetics vs. oil-based varnishes needing mohair/natural bristles
- Skill level – Beginners have more success starting with brushes and working up to spray guns
- Available workspace – Ensure proper ventilation or outdoor area to use spray equipment safely
Also factor in your budget. Spray systems require significant investment for the spray gun, hose, compressor or turbine system. Rental services provide a cost-effective way to test sprayers before buying.
Match your finishing tools to each project for best end results. With multiple options on hand, you have the flexibility to apply flawless finishes regardless of surface size, shape or products used.
Where to Buy Finishing Tools and Supplies
Several options exist for purchasing high-quality finishing equipment locally or online including:
- Hardware Stores – Fully stocked with essentials like paintbrushes, rollers, paint trays, sandpaper and wood fillers. Limited selection of specialty finishing tools.
- Woodworking Stores – Carry specialty stain brushes, spray equipment, compressors along with a full range of sealers, stains and spray booth accessories. Staff are knowledgeable experts.
- Online Retailers – Websites like Amazon, Rockler and Woodcraft have immense catalogues of finishing tools from all major brands. Comparison shop for best prices with convenient home delivery.
- Tool Rental Shops – Allow for short-term rental of expensive spray systems for the duration of a specific project rather than buying equipment outright. Convenient and budget friendly option.
Don’t overlook home centers as they carry affordable finishing basics to get your projects completed on a tight budget. For advanced tools like HVLP turbine spray systems, visit a specialty woodworking store where expert staff can provide guidance on best setup and finishes to use for flawless results.
Conclusion
Applying finishes is rewarding yet often intimidating for novice woodworkers without proper tools and education. Mastering the techniques for using brushes, rollers and spray guns enables you to apply rich, professional finishes allowing the beauty of your wood projects to shine.
Equipping yourself with quality brushes suited to the types of finishes used, along with understanding advantages of rollers and spray systems for larger surfaces, helps streamline the finishing process so your completed project makes you proud.
By selecting the right tools for your skill level and project specifics, you will gain confidence applying durable, attractive finishes that protect and enhance your woodworking creations for years to come.
FAQs
Q: What are the most versatile woodworking finishing brushes I should own?
A: A high-quality natural bristle varnish brush, synthetic bristle stain brush, and small craft brush will allow you to apply most oil or water-based wood finishes smoothly.
Q: Can I use a paint roller to apply polyurethane?
A: Yes, foam or mohair paint rollers work well to apply water-based or oil-based polyurethanes efficiently on flat surfaces like tabletops and dressers.
Q: Is an HVLP spray gun good for spraying lacquer?
A: Yes, an HVLP spray gun is an excellent choice for spraying fast-drying lacquer finishes smoothly and efficiently.
Q: What PSI should I use to apply stain with a spray gun?
A: Most HVLP turbine spray guns can apply water-based wood stains at a low pressure of around 35 PSI. Always test PSI on scrap wood first.
Q: Can I use a cheap paint brush for staining wood?
A: It’s recommended to use high-quality stain brushes as cheaper bristle brushes may leave visible streaks marring the wood’s appearance.
Q: What safety gear should I use when spraying finishes?
A: Wearing a respirator mask with filters, safety goggles, gloves, and protective clothing ensures you avoid inhaling toxic fumes or residue contacting exposed skin.
Q: Where can I learn wood finishing techniques?
A: Books, online videos, woodworking clubs, and hands-on finishing classes at local hardware stores are great for learning proper finishing techniques before tackling your own projects. Start simple and work upwards towards advanced methods like French polishing.
Below are three external links that could be relevant to this article:
https://www.oldworldtimber.com/how-to-choose-the-right-wood-finish-for-your-project/
What Kind of Finish Should You Use? | WOOD FINISHING BASICS
https://www.familyhandyman.com/article/types-of-wood-stains-finishes/