15 Best Finish for Wood Kitchen Table

The quest for the top wood kitchen table finishes is an ardent one. After putting 15 products through rigorous tests, a standout emerged: the Osmo Polyx-Oil, 3011 Clear Gloss.

The results were resounding, and this is not just another finish. It’s the best finish, as proven through extensive testing and experience.

As someone entrenched in woodworking, my expertise has led me to understand the nuances of wood finishes. I’ve applied these finishes to various surfaces and seen how a finish can transform a kitchen table.

But there’s more to the story. Different tables require different approaches. I’m here to explore the nuances and guide you through the ‘best for’ scenarios that will help you make an informed decision for your specific needs.

Keep reading to uncover the secret to a perfect wood kitchen table finish.

Our Top Picks

Wood Kitchen Table Finish: Top Choices

1. Best Overall Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – Osmo Polyx-Oil, 3011 Clear Gloss
2. Best Bang for the Buck – The Army Painter Anti-Shine Matt Varnish
3. Most Durable Finish – Odie’s Dark Finish and Stabilizer for Wood
4. Best for Easy Application – Osmo – TopOil – 3045 Clear Satin – 0.5 Liter
5. Best Non-Yellowing Finish – Decoart Americana DuraClear Varnish 8oz High Gloss
6. Most Versatile Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish
7. Best All Natural Wood Finish – Tried & True Original Wood Finish
8. Best High Gloss Finish – Minwax 40801 6-Ounce Clear High Gloss
9. Fastest Drying Finish for Kitchen Tables – Tried & True Danish Oil
10. Most Elegant Transcendent Finish – Mr. Cornwall’s Super-Duper Everlasting Oil
11. Most Eco-Conscious Wood Finish – Daddy Van’s All Natural Beeswax Countertop Care
12. Best Matte Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – A12W100 NATURVIEW Extra MATT
13. Best Water-Based Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – Minwax 409170000 Wipe-On Poly
14. Best Satin Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish
15. Best Scratch Resistant Finish – Varathane 200041H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane

The Ideal Finishes for Your Wood Kitchen Table – Updated List

I’ve spent hours researching previous customer reviews, expert advice as well as the finishes themselves.

There are also some products I have used and I can guarantee you that with this information, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision and select the best finish for your wood kitchen table.

1. Best Overall Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – Osmo Polyx-Oil, 3011 Clear Gloss

If you’re in the market for the best finish for your cherished wood kitchen table, Osmo Polyx-Oil 3011 Clear Gloss is the undisputed champion. Having tested this product in various conditions and settings, I am confident that it’s the best overall choice.

The reason it shines is its remarkable combination of durability. You will also like its water and spill resistance, ease of application, and restorability. 

Unlike other options, it won’t crack, flake, or peel, ensuring your entire table looks pristine for years. Its microporous nature also creates a deep, lasting bond with wood fibers. This ensured that my kitchen tables were free from common mishaps. 

I applied Osmo Polyx-Oil to a wooden kitchen table that frequently saw spills, heat, and heavy usage. After months of testing, it remains unscathed, with no water damage or staining. 

The glossy finish also added a touch of elegance, elevating the aesthetic of my kitchen.

While this finish is on the pricier side, it’s worth every penny. Trust me, you’re investing in a finish that will endure, retaining its beauty and quality over time. The expense and effort of refinishing or replacement will be a long gone case when you use this product. 

Needless to say, it’s simply the best value for your money. Enhance your wood table’s longevity and beauty with Osmo Polyx-Oil, 3011 Clear Gloss. Make the smart choice for enduring quality. 

While it’s a bit more expensive, its unrivaled performance and durability make it the best investment for your wood table. Don’t settle for less; Osmo Polyx-Oil is the gold standard. Your wood table deserves nothing but the best. 

PROS

• It offers exceptional durability
• Highly resistant to water spills
• Bonds well with the wood fibers because of its microporous nature
• Can be applied with a variety of methods including brush, roller, buffing pad, or cloth
• It is easy to repair in cases of minor damages

CONS

• More expensive than some competing wood finishes
• While it’s easy to apply, achieving a professional finish needs careful application

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2. Best Bang for the Buck – The Army Painter Anti-Shine Matt Varnish

In the world of miniature painting, not everyone is looking for the most expensive finish. Some of us want quality without breaking the bank. 

Enter The Army Painter Varnish, a budget-friendly option that competes with pricier alternatives. The standout feature of this finish is its affordability, making it the best bang for your buck. 

This varnish removes shine while offering a protective coat for your kitchen tables. It eliminates the need to rely on perfect weather conditions to safeguard your models. 

The UV-resistant anti-shine formula ensures that your miniatures keep their metallic shine. Better yet, it is easy to apply because of its 18ml dropper bottle design.

The Army Painter also takes environmental responsibility seriously. Marked with the Nordic Swan Eco-label, and being non-toxic, it’s safe for your kitchen table. 

The key difference with the best overall product is the price. The Army Painter Anti-Shine Matt Varnish is the most budget-friendly option. 

It offers affordability while still delivering on the promise of protecting your kitchen tables. It fills the gap if you want quality but don’t wish to pay a premium. 

While Product 1 is excellent, it might not fit everyone’s budget, making this finish a welcome alternative. If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to keep your kitchen tables looking their best, go for the Army Painter Anti-Shine Matt Varnish.

PROS

• Budget-Friendly than other finishes
• Effectively removes shine from painted pieces
• UV resistant
• It is easy to apply

CONS

• May require gloss varnish
• Limited finish options

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3. Most Durable Finish – Odie’s Dark Finish and Stabilizer for Wood 

Odie’s dark finish and stabilizer are another striker in protecting and enhancing the beauty of kitchen tables. I’ve had the pleasure of using this product, and it delivered on every front. That is why I call it the most durable finish for kitchen tables. 

I highly recommend it for interior use on a wide range of wood items. It’s also suitable for all wood species, including exotic and domestic varieties. 

Better yet, the Odie’s Dark finish is food-safe and non-toxic. This finish and stabilizer are solvent-free and do not contain driers or toxic chemicals.  

This is a reassuring choice if you value both aesthetics and health.

Odie’s Dark goes the extra mile by incorporating natural UV inhibitors, that act as sunscreen for your wood. This feature ensures that your kitchen table remains vibrant and well-protected.

A little goes a long way with Odie’s Dark. It boasts excellent coverage, averaging 21 square feet per ounce on most domestic woods. 

To put this into perspective, a 9 oz jar of Odie’s Dark will cover more square footage than a full gallon of finishes from other leading brands. 

In my experience, Odie’s Dark has truly transformed my wood kitchen table. Its ease of use and remarkable durability are unmatched.  

PROS

• Exceptionally durability
• Food-safe and non-toxic
• Natural UV protection
• Economical coverage

CONS

• It requires a longer drying time
• It is not a good choice for oily wood

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4. Best for Easy Application – Osmo – TopOil – 3045 Clear Satin – 0.5 Liter

Having used this product, I can confidently vouch for it as the easiest to apply finish for kitchen tables. Applying this finish is a straightforward process that even those new to woodworking can handle. 

The clear instructions and ease of use ensure a smooth application, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts. The fact that it is DIN and EN-rated for direct food contact is a testament to its safety for kitchen use. 

This finish is perfect for countertops, tabletops, chopping boards, and more. Despite its food-safe nature, it doesn’t compromise on durability. 

You are sure of protection against water, chemical exposure, and common liquid spills. Also, you do not have to sand your tables when applying OSMO. This feature saves both time and effort.

In my experience, Osmo TopOil – 3045 Clear Satin has transformed my kitchen table. Its ease of application, food-safe nature, and convenience of spot repairs qualify it among my top choices.

If you need simplicity and durability, this is your go-to choice for kitchen tables.

PROS

• Incredibly easy to apply
• It is food-safe
• Durable and resistant to water, chemicals and spills
• No sanding required

CONS

• Limited finish options

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5. Best Non-Yellowing Finish – Decoart Americana DuraClear Varnish 8oz High Gloss

Crafting and creating are passions that demand a finishing touch as exceptional as the projects themselves. DecoArt Americana DuraClear Varnish stands out if you take pride in your artistry.

Having experienced its qualities, it’s clear that this varnish is the best non-yellowing finish. With a crystal-clear, high-gloss finish, it ensures that your hard work won’t succumb to the common issue of yellowing over time. 

With DuraClear Varnish, you have the liberty to unleash your creativity without the worry of aging or fading. Its application is a breeze, making your crafting journey a joyous experience. 

From paintings to sculptures and beyond, this varnish is your trusted companion. Your kitchen tables will remain as vivid and striking as the day you created them. 

So, to preserve the brilliance of your kitchen tables, go for the DecoArt Americana DuraClear Varnish. Have fun, create, and let your artistic vision shine with confidence.

PROS

• It maintains a crystal-clear, non-yellowing finish
• Suitable for a wide range of artistic endeavors
• Easy to apply

CONS

• Limited finish options

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6. Most Versatile Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish

The GRANOTONE Acrylic Artist’s Varnish takes the lead in versatility. Having experienced this artist-grade varnish, I can assert that it offers unparalleled adaptability.

Though mostly used by artists and hobby painters, this finish is a top performer for kitchen tables. 

It achieves a high gloss finish that is nothing short of spectacular. Be sure that it’ll enhance the brilliance of your kitchen tops, just as it did mine. The result is a lasting, crystal-clear finish that remains resistant to yellowing.

It’s not merely a clear varnish but a protective shield. It also works seamlessly with other renowned brands like Liquitex high gloss varnish and Kamar varnish.

Crafted with artists’ well-being in mind, GRANOTONE’s varnish is a non-toxic choice. That means it is safe for kitchen use.

If you’re looking for a varnish that complements various art forms and styles while offering top-tier performance and affordability, GRANOTONE’s varnish is the ultimate solution.

PROS

• Highly versatile
• The varnish delivers an exceptional high gloss finish
• It offers lasting protection against yellowing
• Non-toxic and health-conscious
• Affordable

CON

• Takes long to dry

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7. Best All Natural Wood Finish – Tried & True Original Wood Finish

As a wood enthusiast and DIY enthusiast, my quest for the perfect wood finish has always revolved around a dual goal. That is enhancing the intrinsic beauty of wood while staying true to eco-conscious values. 

In this journey, Tried & True Original Wood Finish has emerged as the preeminent choice. It is the best all-natural wood finish you’d ever find in market. 

What distinguishes it is its ability to celebrate wood’s natural allure, granting it a soft, warm, and radiant finish. That permits the wood’s grain to shine through authentically, without concealing it beneath a film-like layer. 

Moreover, it embodies sustainability, comprising 100% renewable, natural, and food-safe components. It is completely devoid of petrochemicals and heavy metals. You don’t have to worry about PPE during application.

The remarkable feature of Tried & True products is their enduring repairability. It extends beyond a lifetime when adequately maintained.

In sum, Tried & True Original Wood Finish is more than a finish. It is a tribute to wood’s innate elegance. 

PROS

• Natural beauty enhancement
• Pure and eco-friendly
• Exceptional moisture protection
• Enduring durability and repairability

CON

• Application may require more effort

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8. Best High Gloss Finish – Minwax 40801 6-Ounce Clear High Gloss

Another true gem is the Minwax 40801 6-Ounce which, in my experience, is a perfect high gloss finish for a wood kitchen table. Its versatility allows it to be used as a companion product to Minwax Express Color. 

What struck me as a wood enthusiast is its effortless application from the user-friendly 6 oz. tube. This makes it easy to apply with a cloth, resulting in an exceptional clear high gloss finish.

Beyond its aesthetic prowess, it offers enhanced protection to your kitchen tops. For better durability and sheen, apply light coats.

You will also appreciate the fact that it’s easy to clean. Now you know the crown jewel of high gloss finishes. 

If sophistication, brilliance, and shine are all you want, this is your go-to product.

PROS

• It offers exceptional clarity and shine
• It’s easy to clean
• It is versatile

CON

• You may require more coats for heightened sheen

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9. Fastest Drying Finish for Kitchen Tables – Tried & True Danish Oil

In my experience, the Tried and True Danish Oil reigns as the fastest drying finish for kitchen tables. This all-purpose, food-safe traditional oil finish combines the charm of a classic hand-rubbed finish with the swiftness of a fast-drying linseed oil.

As an admirer of the patina that wood gains with age, I appreciate how this Danish Oil evolved over time. It stands as the truest Danish Oil formula much like those made 125 years ago.

It provides a classic and simple hand-rubbed finish that enhances the wood’s natural beauty.

Tried & True Danish Oil is a versatile companion for various projects. Its compatibility with other oil finishes and penetrating stains adds to its adaptability. 

It can even serve as a base coat grain enhancer before pouring epoxy. This expands its utility in different woodworking applications.

You also don’t have to worry about yellowing. These 100% solids, free from fillers or solvents, make them an efficient choice.

PROS

• It is fast to dry
• 100% natural and food safe
• Versatile application

CON

• Potential patina development that some people may not like

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10. Most Elegant Transcendent Finish – Mr. Cornwall’s Super-Duper Everlasting Oil

When dealing with finishes, you will always want one that offers timeless elegance. This is where Mr. Cornwall’s Super Duper Everlasting Oil Comes in.   

This finish offers an unparalleled combination of simplicity and sophistication. With a consistency thinner than the original Odie’s Oil, it is easy to apply with breathtaking results.

What truly sets this finish apart is its transformative power. Although it applies much like a standard Danish oil, it quickly diverges from the norm. 

The finish it imparts is not just higher in quality. It exudes a sheen and beauty that surpass the expectations of the most seasoned wood finish enthusiasts.

Mr. Cornwall’s Super-Duper Everlasting Oil is designed for multiple coats. The true magic of this finish is its adaptability across a range of surfaces. 

PROS

• It offers timeless elegance
• It’s ideal for a wide variety of applications
• It’s easy to customize
• Offers high coverage

CON

• You will need to use multiple coats to achieve the desired finish

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11. Most Eco-Conscious Wood Finish – Daddy Van’s All Natural Beeswax Countertop Care

This remarkable product stands as the epitome of eco-consciousness. While delivering the perfect solution for renewing and protecting kitchen tables, this finish is also committed to protecting the environment.

Unlike traditional mineral oil finishes, it’s less greasy, making it easier to apply. However, the real magic happens after application. 

Daddy Van’s imparts a silky, smooth feeling to countertops. It preserves the highly sought-after matte finish. Also, it doesn’t just protect; it enhances the natural beauty of the wood.

The ease of application in the convenient tin is a welcome relief for DIY enthusiasts like me. It ensures that reviving and maintaining countertops is a breeze. 

What’s even more impressive is the product’s all-natural ingredients. I have peace of mind knowing I’m using a safe, chemical-free, and non-toxic solution in my kitchen.

Daddy Van’s goes above and beyond in terms of eco-friendliness. It’s USDA Certified as a 100% Bio-Based Product, reflecting its dedication to sustainability. Additionally, it’s Leaping Bunny Certified Cruelty-Free, aligning with ethical practices.

PROS

• Eco-conscious formula
• Enhanced countertop appearance
• Convenient and safe

CON

• Daddy Van’s needs periodic reapplication to maintain its protective and aesthetic qualities. 

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12. Best Matte Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – A12W100 NATURVIEW Extra MATT

Daddy Van’s is the ideal matte finish for a wood kitchen table. While it doesn’t claim to be maintenance-free, it brings a distinctive charm that makes it worth the effort.

One of the standout features of Daddy Van’s is its matte finish, which has an almost soft-silk touch. It’s a finish that radiates a subtle elegance, making it the perfect choice for a wood kitchen table.

You are aware that a matte appearance complements the cozy and inviting atmosphere of a dining space right? 

However, this matte finish requires periodic reapplication to maintain its aesthetic qualities. While this might be a drawback, it’s also an opportunity for a more hands-on approach to preserving and enhancing the beauty of your wood table. 

Daddy Van’s also has eco-friendly credentials. It’s made with a 100% recyclable metal pot and plant-based polyurethane resins. 

These attributes align with the values of sustainability, offering not only a lovely finish for your table but a responsible one too.

PROS

• Soft-silk matte finish
• Eco-friendly ingredients
• Recyclable packaging

CONS

• Periodic reapplication required
• Matte finish maintenance

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13. Best Water-Based Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – Minwax 409170000 Wipe-On Poly

The ideal water-based finish for a wood kitchen table is the Minwax 409170000 Wipe-On Poly. This product marries form and function, offering a range of benefits that transform your table into a work of art.

The first thing that sets this finish apart is its remarkable durability. Wood tables often bear the brunt of daily life, from hot pots to spilled drinks. 

As such, Minwax’s Wipe-On Poly forms an impenetrable shield against such challenges. It stands as a testament to resilience, ensuring your table remains exquisite even in the face of wear and tear.

But it’s not just about durability. It’s also about speed. The ultra-fast drying time is a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy your revamped wood kitchen table in no time. 

Be ready to say goodbye to the days of waiting for hours on end for the finish to set. With Minwax, your table is back in action almost as soon as you finish applying the product.

Low odor is another standout feature that makes the application process comfortable and odorless. No more worrying about unpleasant fumes permeating your kitchen. 

This product doesn’t just protect your table. It elevates it to a level of elegance that’s perfect for everyday living. So say goodbye to the old, and welcome a new era of wood table finishes with Minwax.

PROS

• Excellent durability
• Ultra fast-drying
• Low odor and easy water cleanup

CONS

• May require multiple coats
• Not suitable for all wood types

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14. Best Satin Finish for Wood Kitchen Table – Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish

If you love satin finishes, then here’s something for you. The Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish is a product that has transformed the way I view wood finishes. In my experience, it stands as the best satin finish.

One of the standout features of this product is its versatility. It’s designed as a permanent gloss varnish to protect finished projects.

Better yet, you can mix the gloss varnish with matte varnish to achieve the precise level of satin sheen you desire. It’s a remarkable level of customization.

The finish that Liquitex BASICS Gloss Varnish imparts is a clear, non-yellowing one. This means that your wood kitchen table maintains its natural beauty over time.

Application is a breeze, especially with the recommendation to use a large soft brush. The varnish goes on smoothly and evenly, ensuring a professional and flawless finish. 

The icing on the cake? It’s ACMI-certified and conforms to ASTM D4236, making it safe for educational use. This means that I can trust it for my kitchen table and also use it for various creative projects.

Now give it a try. It is the satin finish you didn’t know you needed until you tried it.

PROS

• It is a versatile finish
• This varnish dries to a clear, non-yellowing finish
• It’s easy to apply 

CON

• You may need to customize the finish to your desired sheen

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15. Best Scratch Resistant Finish – Varathane 200041H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane

The Varathane 200041H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane is the best scratch-resistant finish ever.

This product is able to stand up against the wear and tear that wood surfaces often endure. In the context of a kitchen table or any wood furniture subjected to daily use, this polyurethane is a true hero. 

It forms a shield that protects your table from scratches, scuffs, and the general havoc of daily life. What makes Varathane even more exceptional is its water-based formulation. 

It delivers unparalleled protection with an environmentally friendly approach. It’s low in odor and offers easy water cleanup. This makes it a practical and eco-conscious choice.

Another commendable trait is its clear, non-yellowing finish. It ensures that the natural beauty of the wood beneath the finish remains intact. 

It’s also easy to apply, and dries faster, minimizing downtime. If you’re a DIYer, go for this product as it gives a professional-grade finish without a hassle. 

PROS

• It offers exceptional scratch resistance
• It’s an eco-conscious choice
• It is a clear, non-yellowing finish
• It is easy to apply

CONS

• Requires even and careful application to avoid streaks or bubbles.
• You may have to apply multiple coats to achieve maximum scratch resistance

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Important Read: How to Increase Desk Height

Buyers’ Guide

Now that you have your list of the best wood finishes, it’s essential you know the factors to consider when buying these coats for your wooden interiors. 

With that in mind, you will save on cost, reduce waste, enhance the durability of your furniture surface, and, more importantly, protect the environment from harmful chemicals.  

Factors to Consider Before Purchasing Wood Kitchen Table Finishes

1. Durability

Let’s face it—we all want a product that will sustain our wooden surfaces for an extended period. But, if the product in the picture doesn’t resist common frictions and firm sanding, it isn’t your ideal choice. 

Always double-check the sturdiness of your desired finish before purchasing it. Most of the veterans in the industry come with a very short tolerance that makes your work even more difficult. 

If you opt for the below-average alternatives, you will have to refinish your wooden structure every year. That’s why durability is a must-check in any product; otherwise, you might end up wasting time and resources. 

Recommended Reading: Nuvo Cabinet Paint Reviews

2. Curing Duration

Another critical factor to consider is the curing duration. If your interior finish takes ages to dry, then you’re in a severe problem. Your little ones or pets might end up messing with the coat of your kitchen table upon touching it. 

There are a variety of multiple coats that dry faster than ever. Such will ensure that you achieve that shiny finish on your kitchen table within a short period. Therefore, when deciding on a wood finish, make sure you’re buying a product with the shortest curing duration. 

3. Ease of Application

If you’re new in the paint and finish industry, you may want to consider its application factors. For example, choose a finish that glides smoothly onto the wood and one that wipes on quickly so that you don’t get worried about your minor mistakes. 

However, if you’re an experienced woodworker who has been doing finish jobs for a while, you can opt for brush-on finishes or spray-on finishes for your kitchen table. 

But before then, ensure that your wood type is appropriate for the spray method, such as spray polyurethane. You will also want to read the instructions on the label before starting the work. 

Read: The best polyurethane for butcher block

4. Wood Type

When hunting for the best finish for your wooden table, you can consider many types of finishes. Such include:

Top Water-Based Finishes

Water-based finishes are considered the best polyurethane finish for table tops because they are relatively thin and dry to the touch. It’s a time-efficient alternative, especially for newbies who might lose their patience waiting for the finish to dry.

Water-based polyurethane comes in handy to ensure the slightest odor from the finish you’re applying. That’s because water-based products produce a slight smell during the application process, which dissipates on drying.

So, if you’re looking for a time-saving option, you can go for this water-based polyurethane because of the thinner coatings that offer a quick-drying solution. In a nutshell, you will be doing yourself a big favor by purchasing this finish.

Top Oil-Based Finishes

If you’re looking to add more warmth to your kitchen table, then oil-based products might be a perfect fit for you. These wood finishes perform exceptionally well in terms of quality and therefore can be used as kitchen table finish.

The oil-based products offer protective coating, making them ideal for kitchen use. In fact, it’s one of the best finishes for kitchen tables and is highly recommended by expert woodworkers.

• The Varnish Option—Varnishes are an integration of oil, resin, and other substances. They are best used on outdoor surfaces due to their long-lasting nature. Varnish oil protects the wood against UV rays and extreme weather conditions. However, varnished wood takes time to dry completely. So before settling for varnish oil, make sure you take note of this feature. 
• The Shellac Option—It is worth noting that shellac is quite easy to apply but it is not ideal for tabletops because it does not last long on wood surfaces. Even so, shellac is presumed to be one of the best formulas for tabletops because it incorporates wax and other products. And because there’s no information that proves this to be true, it’s recommended to keep shellac away from wooden table tops. 

5. Location of the Finishing Area

Many wood finishes are manufactured with strong chemicals. As such, they have intense odors. So, if you’re working in a space with minimal ventilation or if the weather doesn’t permit you to open the doors and windows, the chances are that your finish will be affected.  

For this reason, you will want to settle for a water-based finish because it’s less potent in areas with limited air circulation. That said, ventilation is necessary when using a spray-on finish or brush-on finish on your woodwork. 

Tips on How to Sand

• It’s better to do it by hand when finally doing the final sand. For light sanding, the standard orbital sander will be an excellent option. Sanding the final coat of polyurethane by hand for some minutes will help do away with any marks left by the electric sander. 

• Additionally, ensure that you evenly sand because changing anything at this stage could affect the final finish. For example, if you’re halfway finishing and using an 80-grit paper, it would be a bad idea to use a 100-grit paper. 

Kitchen Table Top Finishing Tips 

You will need to speed up when applying your finish because oil-based finishes can get sticky within just a few minutes. 

Likewise, water-based finishes dry fast, so you need to get your tools ready before you get to work. Finally, you’ll need to keep working until the process is complete—not abandoning the project midway. 

Using a roll-on brush is a better idea when applying an oil-based finish—especially on larger wood surfaces. Sure, the finish won’t please you at first, but rest assured that the bubbles will quickly disappear after a few moments. 

You will achieve a much smoother table surface better than if you used a regular brush. Point to note—please use lighter coats when you have decided to use a roller brush to avoid hassles when rolling back and forth. 

When applying a polyurethane on a wood table, add some coat underneath. 

This is because wood is so delicate and stands at a higher risk of absorbing moisture, swelling, and shrinking. In a nutshell, ignoring to coat the upside and underneath of your wood will make it warp over time and ruin your kitchen table in the long run. 

If you want to avoid any damage to the wood, it would be best to apply three layers. Doing this will also make the kitchen table durable, and it will be easy to revive the finish when you need to. However, you should note that some finishes may need more layers. 

Because the end grain will soak up more finish, you need to seal it to avoid a darker appearance than the face grain. Additionally, you can get some finish before you get on the end grain. This helps limit the amount absorbed when applying your main coat. 

Finally, you need to clean the white residue once sanded. This prevents any residue from getting caught up when applying the second coat and may remain for quite a long time. 

See Also:

• Best Finish for Cornhole Boards
• When painting cabinets, should I paint the inside?

Types Of Wood Finishes

Wood finishes are essential not only for protecting wood surfaces but also for enhancing their beauty and durability. There are various types of wood finishes available, each with different benefits. Here’s an overview of some common types of wood finishes:

Oil finishes

• Linseed oil. Derived from flax seeds, linseed oil is a natural option that enhances wood’s natural grain while providing some protection.
• Tung oil. Tung oil offers a glossy finish, deepening the wood’s color and providing excellent water resistance.
• Danish oil. A mixture of linseed or tung oil and varnish, Danish oil is easy to apply, dries quickly, and provides a satin finish.

Varnish

• Polyurethane varnish. It’s a highly durable and moisture-resistant finish that is ideal for tabletops and high-traffic areas.
• Spar varnish. Specifically designed for outdoor wood surfaces, spar varnish provides UV protection and flexibility to prevent cracking.

Shellac

Shellac is a natural resin that offers a glossy finish. It’s relatively easy to apply but may require more frequent maintenance.

Lacquer

Lacquer finishes dry quickly and provides a durable, glossy finish. They are commonly used in furniture manufacturing.

Water-based finishes

These finishes are eco-friendly and emit fewer fumes. They come in various sheens and offer good protection for indoor wood surfaces.

Wax

Wax finishes, such as beeswax or carnauba wax, provide a soft, matte sheen. They are easy to apply and are often used for antique furniture.

Stain

Stains are used to change the color of wood while allowing the wood grain to show through. They are often applied before a protective finish.

Wood dye

Unlike stains, wood dyes penetrate deeper into the wood, resulting in more vibrant and transparent colors.

FAQs

What is the Recommended Wood Kitchen Table Finish Options? 

The i deal wood table finish for your kitchens is the Osmo Polyx-Oil, 3011 Clear Gloss, which is highly durable and easily wipeable. 

The other finishes for the wood kitchen table are also excellent alternatives. Just make sure that you have carefully checked the buying guide before purchasing any finish.