My buddy Chuck called me the other day and asked me to help out with a project. His wife, Kate, had lost her mother earlier in the year. When her mom’s estate was divided up, Kate got her mom’s Singer ...

For shellac finish users, good news: Shellac flakes have become more plentiful. Even those familiar with shellac may not know that it starts out as a crusty protective coating secreted on tree ...

Now is a good time to refinish furniture and other woodwork because ample ventilation can be easily supplied to avoid breathing harmful fumes. It is also high season for antiques sales and flea ...

Dear James: I recently bought an older house. It has beautiful cherry woodwork that needs to be refinished. I have heard about a French-polish finish. Is this a good finish to use and how do I do it? ...

Next time you’re working on a project that needs a durable wood finish, don’t grab the polyurethane. Follow [Victor Ola’s] advice and raid your grandparent’s record cabinet for some old 78 records.

Next time you’re working on a project that needs a durable wood finish, don’t grab the polyurethane. Follow [Victor Ola’s] advice and raid your grandparent’s record cabinet for some old 78 records.

Wood floors need a sealer to protect new wood when it’s installed, and again years later after resanding. Finishes like shellac, lacquer and linseed oil don’t qualify even though they’re great on ...

Geraldine has over a decade of experience writing within the home improvement sector. Additionally, she has unique first-hand renovation experience as the previous owner of a house-flipping business.

Question: I recently bought an older house. It has beautiful cherry woodwork that needs to be refinished. I have heard about a French polish finish. Is this a good finish to use and how do I do it?