Finishes generally fall under one of two categories; penetrating or surface finishes. Oils that penetrate the wood bring out its beauty but do little to protect, while surface finishes keep a piece looking good. Our favorite recipe is a hand-rubbed oil coated with varnish to create a better looking and more durable finish.

Some pieces of wood are too spectacular to cut into dimensional lumber and are sold as slabs. Claro Walnut is the most common wood available as large wide boards with natural edges.