Wax

Waxes are an easy finish to apply and maintain because they are generally rubbed onto the wood with a special cloth or brushed on and they also give the timber a natural shine and appearance.

They also don't have to be the only finish applied to the wood either they can also be applied after a stain has been used such as a shellac or varnish.

By adding this finish after a stain it helps to bring out the stains color and it also helps to protect it better from marks or scratches.

Over time this type of finish tends to slightly harden and they are difficult for bare timbers to absorb because of how thick they are. This is a good finish for applying to furniture pieces that may need extra maintenance and protection such as a table.

This type of finish is a very good product for increasing a woods durability, shine and moisture resistance. You can also buy colored waxes suitable for the different colors of wood and it is used enhance the unique color of a particular woods (Padauk and Purpleheart).

This sort of finish is good to use if you fell your furniture needs the extra protection or enhance aesthetics but it also does require more maintenance and more often than a traditional wood stain or finish.