Wood Finishing Glossary
French Polish
The traditional high quality wood finish achieved by applying numerous thin coats of French polish (shellac) with rag and wadding.
Liming
A decorative finish achieved by rubbing a paste into the grain of timber, usually oak.
Waxing
The application of many coats of clear or pigmented wax and burnished to a luxurious satin finish.
Cellulose Lacquer
A hardwearing finish suitable for commercial applications.
Fire Retardant
Application of fire retardant finishes to reduce fire spread.
Ebonizing
The blackening of timber to imitate ebony wood.
Pickling
The application of acid to pine to imitate the appearance of age.
Fuming
Exposing timber (normally oak) to ammonia fumes to imitate the appearance of age.