The Final Touch: How I Finish My Boards

Some woodworking projects are just special. This one, in particular, holds extra meaning—it sold at a fundraising auction for $500, helping to raise funds for my wife Caitlin’s cancer treatment. And as I put the final touches on it, I caught my own reflection in its polished surface, a moment of stillness in a process that is all about movement.

 

Bringing Out the Beauty

Finishing a board is where the real magic happens. It’s not just about making it look good; it’s about making it last. The grain comes alive, the natural depth of the wood reveals itself, and the surface transforms from raw material into something both beautiful and functional.

My process starts long before this final step, carefully selecting reclaimed timber, shaping and joining it, and ensuring it’s solid and seamless. But the finish—that’s where it all comes together.

Step 1: Sanding—The Foundation of a Perfect Finish

Sanding is everything. I take my boards through multiple grits, from 80 up to 400, sometimes higher, depending on the piece. This removes any tool marks, smooths out the surface, and preps the wood to absorb the finish evenly.

I go by feel as much as by sight—running my hands over the surface to catch anything my eyes might miss. If a board isn’t silky smooth at this stage, no amount of oil or wax will fix it.

Step 2: Flooding the Grain

Once sanded, I apply a generous first coat of food-safe oil. I let the wood drink it in, sometimes applying multiple rounds if needed. This deep soak not only enhances the colour and contrast of the grain but also provides the first layer of protection against moisture and wear.

Step 3: The Buffing and Sealing Process

After the oil has had time to absorb, I apply a homemade blend of beeswax, carnauba wax, and mineral oil. This gives the board a soft, natural sheen while adding a water-resistant barrier.

I work the wax in by hand, letting the heat from friction help it penetrate the surface. Then, using a soft cloth or buffing pad, I bring out the final glow. That’s when the reflection appears, when the wood takes on that depth that makes it almost look like glass.

The Moment Before It Leaves

Every board I make is unique, but this one is different. It’s not just a labour of craftsmanship but a piece of something bigger—a small part of the support and generosity that has been carrying my family through Caitlin’s treatment.

Seeing my reflection in it, just before it goes to its new home, feels fitting. A reminder that every piece carries a story, and this one is going exactly where it’s meant to be.