Finishing Is a Decision
Which Finish Is Right for Solid Wood Furniture: Oil or Lacquer?
Finishing is one of the most essential stages in crafting solid wood furniture. It not only protects the wood from moisture, stains, and wear, but also defines the final look and feel of the piece. In our workshop, we use two types of high-end finishes: hardwax oil and lacquer. Each offers distinct advantages depending on how the furniture will be used. Here’s what you need to know.
Hardwax Oil — For Those Who Appreciate Natural Texture & Warm Feel
We use only premium oils from trusted brands like Rubio Monocoat, Osmo. These finishes penetrate deep into the wood, enhancing its natural grain and leaving a silky, tactile surface without forming a plastic-like film. The result is a warm, living finish that ages gracefully. All oil is applied by hand in several stages, with precision and care.
Hardwax oil is an excellent choice for furniture that won’t be exposed to heavy moisture or food contact: beds, bedside tables, coffee tables, light-use desks, dressers, decorative pieces. However, it’s important to note that oil does not fully seal the wood — spills like water, wine, coffee, or oil can absorb into the surface and cause staining if not cleaned promptly.
For this reason, we do not recommend oil for kitchen counters, dining tables, bathroom vanities, or any area with high humidity or water exposure. In such cases, we opt for professional-grade lacquer. One more benefit of oil: a wide palette of color options. We can custom-match the finish to perfectly complement your interior.
Lacquer — Maximum Protection & Lasting Elegance
Lacquer creates a durable, sealed layer over the wood, closing the pores completely. It offers superior resistance to moisture, stains, and wear — making it the ideal choice for high-traffic or high-humidity environments.
Before applying lacquer, we often tint the wood using high-quality stains — especially for lighter woods such as chestnut, oak, and ash. Staining allows us to achieve the desired tone without hiding the natural grain. We then apply multiple coats of lacquer with careful sanding in between. The result is a flawless, long-lasting protective finish using only professional-grade products.
Lacquer is our recommended solution for: dining tables, kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, and any furniture in wet or high-use zones. It is easy to clean, highly durable, and keeps your furniture looking beautiful for years.
Which Should You Choose?
Both oil and lacquer are excellent — the best choice depends on your space, lifestyle, and design preferences. We’ll guide you through the options, advise on the best finish for each piece, and ensure your furniture looks and performs exactly as it should.