Originally posted by: thirtythree
Okay, so it sounds like I would want to finish the furniture. Based on a quick google search, I assume I just need to sand it first, then apply some sort of oil or varnish. Any advice on what type of finish to use?
For a dinning table and chairs I would advise to go with a good quality oil base polyurathane. Although, there has been a big improvent with the acrylic resins formulas, I would still use an oil base poly. Specially on furniture that will be use often. After the curing process the oil will have a harder finish.
Dont forget to sand before you apply your first coat. Also light sand in between coats. The number of coats depends on the finish desired and the method of application. Normally two to three coats should be sufficient.
Now, if for some reason you have got to use a water based (100%acrylic) poly, make sure that you DO NOT use steel wool for sanding. Thats a common mistake some people do.
I don't want the color to get much darker, but I would like to protect from stains/water/scratches...
There is something called "ambering" process that takes place with oil based materials. The oil base poly is no exception. The finish will "amber" overtime but it wont change the color much. If you were finishing a wood that has been stained with a white stain, I would go a different route other wise stick with the oil based.
Whats the color of the wood right now?
Will it be necessary to refinish the furniture regularly?
NO. If you take your time doing everything right and use good quality products, then NO. After you apply your finish let the furniture "cure" for a few days or weeks before putting it to normal use. The longer you let it cure the better.
EDIT: I also don't want it to be too shiny afterwards. I like the look of natural wood.
You could get a flat finish, "rubbed effect", or satin finish. Now the first two finishes (flat and rubbed effect) will be hard to find at a local store. More than likely they will have to order it. They just dont sell that much. So for a local store to stock it, its just not worth it. I love the satin finish myself. It gives the wood just enough sheen but wont be as shiny as a semi gloss or gloss finish.
Now, the sheen level is measured in units @ an angle (normaly 80* or 60*). Just because a poly says Satin on the label, the product may be "duller" or "shinier" than a different brand.
So, you go to the store and you have a few different choices of GOOD QUALITY satin finish polyurathanes. How do you know which one will have the level of sheen that will please you? Simple, bring a piece of wood to the store and ask someone if they can run a few samples on it. Let them dry for a day or two and make your call. Or you could ask for data sheets on those products. In it you'll find the units of sheen. The more units of sheen level the "shinier" the finish. Now, make sure the units have been measured at the same angle, either 60* or 80*. Other wise you may want to run some samples.
I think I'll stop now. I can ramble about this sort of thing all day long. Sorry if thats a little to much "input." Let me know if you have any questions.
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