Similarly, a great deal of satisfaction can be obtained from staining or colouring wood. There is also the practical aspect of protecting the wood to keep it free from marks, and also to avoid the penetration of moisture which might cause movement of the finished work, or worse still - splitting or cracking. Consideration should be given to how a piece will be used or viewed, whether there is significant grain that could be enhanced, as well as how it will be subject to wear, when determining which colour and finish to apply. Texture and grain will also determine the type of finish and not least, what preparatory work may be needed, whether a grain filler will be needed or not. Finally, always remember to work in well lighted and ventilated conditions whenever you are applying finishes.
Light is needed to match and co-ordinate colour, and ventilation to get rid of unwanted fumes etc.
A variety of abrasive materials glued to paper backing sheets are used to smooth timber, collectively known as sandpaper. Often refered to as 'wet and dry' paper. Can be used dry for sanding hardwoods. A pale grey silicon carbide paper dusted with zinc oxide powder that acts as a dry lubricant is preferable for rubbing down French Polish between coats. Work in the direction of the grain, taking care not to scratch the timber with the edges of the scraper.