Styling Guide: Different Wood Finishes 

Wood finishes can make all the difference when it comes to selecting furniture. Beyond merely furnishing a space, your choice of wood finish holds the key to unlocking the true potential of your interiors. Finishes not only protect different types of wood furniture from wear and tear but can also enhance natural beauty. They add depth, richness, and character to the wood, helping to make each piece a defining feature in any room.

Are you going for a sleek, modern look? Or maybe you prefer a more rustic tone? Whatever your aesthetic of choice, the right wood finish can make it stand out.

Types Of Wood Finishes For Furniture

There is a wide range of different types of wood finishes to choose from, each offering unique qualities and benefits to your furniture. 

Varnish

Varnish has a glossy and durable finish, adding a touch of sophistication to furniture pieces like Abbyson's elegant dining tables. Its ability to withstand wear and tear makes it ideal for high-traffic areas, helping ensure longevity without compromising on style.

Lacquer

For those seeking a sleek and modern look, lacquer is the perfect choice. Its smooth and shiny surface enhances the natural beauty of the wood while providing excellent protection against scratches and moisture.

Oil 

If it’s warmth and richness you’re after, oil finish es penetrate deep into the wood, enhancing its natural grain and color while providing a matte, velvety feel. Some of Abbyson's rustic wooden bed frames benefit from the nourishing properties of oil, exuding a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Wax

Wax adds a soft sheen to wood surfaces while offering a protective layer against moisture and minor damage. This traditional finish can enhance the beauty of furniture evoking a sense of timeless craftsmanship. 

  • Stains and Paints

    Stains and paints are two popular methods used to add color to wood, each offering unique benefits and aesthetic effects.

    Stains penetrate the wood's surface, enhancing its natural grain while adding depth and richness to the color. They come in various shades, from light to dark, allowing for customization to suit any style preference.

    Paints are intended to cover the wood surface rather than allowing the wood’s natural elements to come through like a stain does. Painted wooden furniture can come in a wide range of colors to suit any style.

  • Penetrating Oils

    When it comes to protecting wood from within while adding a subtle sheen, penetrating oils like linseed and tung oil are the go-to choices. These oils seep deep into the wood fibers, nourishing and protecting them from moisture and other environmental elements. Unlike surface finishes that sit atop the wood, penetrating oils enhance the natural beauty of the wood from within while providing a breathable barrier against damage.

  • Polyurethane

    Available in both water-based and oil-based forms, polyurethane finishes offer a robust shield against scratches, stains, and moisture, helping to ensure your furniture stands the test of time.

  • Shellac

    A traditional wood finish derived from the secretions of the lac beetle, Shellac is quick drying and brings forth a rich and warm luster that effortlessly enhances the natural beauty of wood.

  • Lacquer

    Furniture in high-traffic areas may benefit from durable finishes like lacquer. It offers a fast drying time and smooth finish while providing robust protection against scratches and spills.

  • Varnish

    Varnish possesses an excellent ability of being able to withstand the elements. This makes it the ideal option for outdoor furniture and woodwork while the sleek, glossy finish offers a sophisticated look.

  • Wax

    Lighter finishes like wax can impart a sense of airiness and warmth, giving wood a soft sheen and natural feel. Wax finishes are ideal for antique furniture and decorative items.

Factors To Consider When Choosing A Wood Finish

Wood finishes in the home help set the tone for your interiors and play a crucial role in preserving the life of your furniture. When choosing your stain, consider the following:

  • Purpose of Your Wooden Furniture

    When selecting the perfect wood finish for your furniture, it's essential to consider its intended purpose. Are you furnishing a high-traffic area like a living room or a more intimate space like a bedroom?

  • Durability and Protection Needs

    The durability and protection offered by different wood finishes play a crucial role in maintaining the longevity of your furniture. If you have young children or pets, opt for finishes with superior scratch and moisture resistance, such as lacquer or varnish. These hard-wearing options are ideal for withstanding the rigors of daily use, ensuring your furniture remains looking beautiful for years to come.

  • Desired Aesthetic Appeal

    Consider the aesthetic you wish to achieve in your home. Are you drawn to the sleek, modern look of lacquer, or do you prefer the rustic charm of an oil or wax finish? The color and sheen of the finish can dramatically impact the overall ambiance of your space.

  • Maintenance and Upkeep

    Wood finishes like varnish, lacquer, and polyurethane, typically need periodic care to maintain their shine and durability. This may include routine cleaning with a gentle wood cleaner and soft cloth to remove dust and debris, as well as occasional reapplication of the finish to address wear and tear. Additionally, finishes like shellac and penetrating oils, while offering excellent protection and enhancing the wood's natural beauty, may require occasional reapplication to maintain their luster and protective properties.

Styling Tips For Wood-Finished Furniture

Experiment with different finishes, textures, and colors to curate a space that reflects your unique personality and style. When choosing wood finishes for furniture:

  1. Consider the existing elements in your space
    If you've established a minimalist look, opt for sleek, lacquered finishes to complement the clean lines and simplicity of the design. For those embracing a more eclectic aesthetic, don't be afraid to mix and match different wood finishes. Pair a rustic, oil-finished dining table with glossy, varnished chairs for a delightful juxtaposition of textures and styles.

  2. Consider the color palette of your room
    Wood finishes come in a range of hues, from light and airy to dark and dramatic. Consider the color palette of your room and choose finishes that complement or contrast with existing elements. Lighter finishes like natural oils or wax can brighten up a space and create an airy, open feel, while darker stains add depth and sophistication.

  3. Don't be afraid to mix and match different wood finishes
    Experiment with different furniture finishes, textures, and colors to curate a space that reflects your unique personality and style. Mix modern and traditional design elements by pairing wood-finished furniture with contemporary pieces. For example, combine a sleek, modern sofa with vintage-inspired wooden chairs to create a stylish and eclectic living room area.

Find the Ideal Wood Finish for Your Home at Abbyson

Whether it's the contemporary allure of lacquer or the timeless elegance of wax, Abbyson's diverse range of furniture beautifully showcases the versatility of wood finishes, elevating every corner of your home with style and sophistication. To get inspired about your next interior design explore our range of exquisite wood furniture finishes today.