Finishes
Penetrating Oils
Pour oil onto the surface, let it soak in for half an hour, then vigorously wipe off the excess with a clean rag. If dry spots appear, use more oil and immediately wipe. Rub hard to jumpstart the hardening process, and leave to dry overnight.

Sand the surface, wipe dust off and apply a second oil coat. For the richest possible sheen, flood the surface with oil, then rub with wet/dry paper, creating a slurry of dust and oil. Rub until almost dry, wipe with a clean rag, and repeat. The larger the pores, the more coats are necessary. Dry for several days, then use wet/dry paper to polish the surface by lubricating the paper with mineral spirits, and rub briskly.

Applying Wax
Apply over thoroughly-dried varnish, shellac or oil, using soft steel wool or a nylon pad, in the direction of the grain. Wipe off excess with a cotton rag. Leave to harden for several hours, then buff with a soft rag or polisher.

Wax Polishes
In the past, woodworkers made polish by dissolving beeswax and hard carnauba wax in turpentine. Although still available, such products are rarely used as there are many excellent ready-made preparations on the market.

Wax produces an attractive mellow finish that improves with age. Colours range from almost transparent to deep brown 'antique', creating the impression of an aged patina, which will disguise scratches in a ready-polished surface.

Applying Varnish
Never shake varnish, but mix it in a figure-eight motion, and strain through a paper filter into a clean bucket. Wet two-thirds of the brush then tap gently to remove excess varnish. Apply at least five thin coats to the product - more if the furniture is destined for outdoors, to build up UV protection. Apply coats carefully, using short strokes diagonal to the grain. Make the last strokes as long as possible and avoid over-building where overlapping occurs, by applying treatment from the dry area back to the wet.

Pick up drips with a clean brush and 'tip off' the last strokes to blend brush marks, smooth overlapped areas, and remove bubbles. When dry, sand with steel or bronze wool - never a power sander.

To test for dryness, sand a small corner: if there's white dust, the finish is dry. Never use thinners to clear away dust, as it reduces adhesion. Simply use a clean, dry cloth.