Finishes

Seri Robinson, a professor of wood anatomy, says finishes undermine the natural antimicrobial properties of wood.

Similar in appearance to wood worn by prolonged exposure to the elements, uzukuri finish is created by rubbing a stiff brush back and forth along the wood, gradually removing the softer areas of early wood.

It's OK to use these as a jumping-off point to explore your own delicious blends.

Bora PM-6250 fixed-base router, Osmo Polyx-Oil Raw Matte 3051, Infinity Sliver Med Pack by MyMedic.

This rich, dark-brown finish is the one often found when you see this Arts and Crafts chair in collections.

Pine's notoriously splotchy thanks to its uneven density, but that doesn't mean it's unusable.

Christopher Miano shares an ancient Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring the surface.

A wiping varnish goes on easily and creates a tough surface ready for rubbing out.

Why you can't go wrong with shellac or milk paint as your box finish.

Heide Martin uses a vat-dying technique with its roots in fabric dying to give vibrant indigo color to her furniture.