When it comes to choosing a finish for a farmhouse table, there are many options available, ranging from stains to painted finishes to natural finishes. However, selecting the perfect finish can be a daunting task since you want to ensure that it will not only enhance the beauty of your table but also protect it from regular wear and tear.
In this blog post, we will explore some of the best finishes for farmhouse tables to help you make an informed choice.
Satin Finish
The satin finish is one of the most popular finishes for a farmhouse table. This finish is popular because it enhances the natural beauty of the wood while also offering excellent protection against wear and tear.
It is a type of finish that is somewhere in between matte and gloss. This means that it does not produce a high shine like gloss finishes, but neither is it entirely dull. As a result, satin finishes produce a subtle luster that makes the wood of a farmhouse table look natural while also reducing glare.
Brands like Minwax, Rust-Oleum, and TotalBoat are popular for making the best wood satin finishes. These finishes come in various colors and are easy to apply.
Polyurethane Finish
Polyurethane is a popular finish for farmhouse tables because it provides an excellent protective coat on the wood that is highly durable. Additionally, polyurethane finish is available in different types, including water-based, oil-based, and solvent-based, which all provide different levels of protection.
An oil-based polyurethane finish provides a deep, rich color and is ideal for tables that will be exposed to cold or humid environments. On the other hand, water-based polyurethane finish dries faster, produces less odor, and does not yellow over time. Solvent-based polyurethane finish is the most durable, but it contains VOCs, which make it hazardous to use in enclosed areas.
Lacquer Finish
Lacquer finish is another popular finish for farmhouse tables. It provides an incredibly smooth and glossy surface that enhances the beauty of the wood. Lacquer finishes are durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to maintain.
However, lacquer finishes require a bit of skill and care in the application. Lacquer dries quickly, which means it is prone to developing brush marks or drips. Therefore, it is essential to apply lacquer finish in thin coats to achieve a smooth and seamless finish.
Oil Finish
Oil finish is ideal for those who prefer a natural look on their farmhouse tables. It penetrates into the wood grain, enhancing its natural beauty while providing excellent protection against moisture. Additionally, oil finish is easy to apply, and the wood can be readily re-oiled when necessary.
There are different types of oil finishes available, including tung oil, linseed oil, and Danish oil. Tung oil is one of the most popular oil finishes because it is highly durable and provides a beautiful, natural finish. Linseed oil is also popular and provides a rich, warm color on the wood. Danish oil contains varnish, which makes it more durable than pure oil finishes.
Milk Paint Finish
Milk paint finishes have been in use for centuries, and they are a popular option for farmhouse tables because they provide a charming, vintage look. This finish is made from a combination of milk protein, lime, and pigments and is easy to apply.
Milk paint finishes produce a matte or chalky look on the wood and are highly durable when sealed with a wax or polyurethane finish. Additionally, milk paint finishes are eco-friendly and produce very little waste.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect finish for your farmhouse table depends on your personal preference and the kind of protection you require for your table. If you want to enhance the natural beauty of the wood while also providing excellent protection, consider a satin finish or an oil finish.
If you prefer a glossy and durable finish, a polyurethane or lacquer finish may be your best option. Alternatively, if you prefer a more vintage look, consider a milk paint finish.
Finally, ensure that you follow the recommended application procedures and adhere to safety instructions when applying the finishes. With proper care and maintenance, your farmhouse table will last for years and retain its beautiful appearance.
FAQ
What finish do the Amish use on their furniture?
The Amish are a religious group known for their traditional values and simple way of life. One aspect of their traditional lifestyle is their craftsmanship in woodworking and furniture making. The Amish are renowned for their ability to create high-quality, durable and attractive pieces of furniture that can last for generations.
When it comes to finishing their furniture, the Amish utilize a high-quality finish that is known as Woodwright Brand Catalyzed Varnish. This type of varnish is a type of coating that is based on a synthetic resin and is cured with a chemical reaction. The result is a highly durable and scratch-resistant finish that is ideal for furniture pieces that will be frequently used, such as tables, chairs, and desks.
Catalyzed varnishes have several advantages over other finishes. They are highly resistant to heat and moisture and provide a long-lasting, attractive finish that does not yellow over time. Moreover, they are very easy to clean and maintain, which makes them ideal for furniture pieces that are used frequently.
The Amish use Woodwright Brand Catalyzed Varnish to finish their furniture. This finish is highly durable, scratch-resistant, and resistant to heat and moisture. It provides a long-lasting and attractive finish that does not yellow over time and is easy to clean and maintain. If you’re looking for a high-quality finish for your furniture, you may want to consider using catalyzed varnish like the Amish.