Polishes and Stains for Woods: How to Use and Prepare Them - Practical

In this review of Polishes and Stains for Woods: How to Use and Prepare Them the reviewer finds a thorough, antique how-to that still serves hobbyists and professionals. The book's single biggest selling point is its practical, step-by-step guidance on preparing wood and applying finishes, making it a reliable reference for anyone who wants clear instruction on techniques such as French polishing, waxing, oil polishing and staining. The tone is instructional rather than trendy, and this edition includes a new introduction that frames the original material for modern readers.

Key Features

• Complete finishing techniques: Covers French polishing, waxing and oil polishing so readers can choose the right finish for each project.
• Step-by-step preparation: Detailed preparation chapters explain surface filling and conditioning to improve final results.
• Practical staining guidance: Provides recipes and methods for staining and darkening woods to achieve consistent color.
• Specialized topics: Sections on spiriting off, glazing and fillers give specific methods for advanced restoration and decorative work.
• Useful for reference: The book reads like a treatise, making it easy to consult for particular problems rather than read straight through.

Who It's For

This text is aimed at both the serious amateur woodworker and the working tradesperson who wants a compact, authoritative manual on traditional finishing techniques. The clear directions on preparing surfaces and applying stains are particularly useful for anyone restoring furniture or working with fine veneers.

Less suitable for readers who want modern product brand comparisons, synthetic finish chemistry, or highly illustrated step-by-step photo tutorials; the book is an instructional antique reprint with emphasis on method and written description rather than contemporary tooling or pictorial guides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Extensive coverage of classic finishes provides depth for French polishing and waxing techniques.
• Practical preparation chapters improve the likelihood of a professional result when followed closely.
• The staining and preparation recipes give repeatable approaches to color and finish control.

Cons

• As an antique text, it lacks contemporary product photos and modern brand recommendations, which may limit readers seeking visual guidance.

Specifications

Title	Polishes and Stains for Woods: How to Use and Prepare Them
Author	David Denning
Contents	Chapters on French polishing, waxing, oil polishing, glazing and staining
Audience	Amateur and professional woodworkers
Edition	Antique text republished with new introduction
Focus	Technique, preparation and practical recipes

Our Verdict

This book remains a solid value for woodworkers who want reliable, technique-focused instruction on finishing and staining. Those who need modern photos or brand-specific product guidance should supplement it, but as a methodical guide to traditional practices it is hard to beat for clarity and breadth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this book suitable for beginners?
The book is accessible to beginners willing to read carefully and practice the methods, but it assumes interest in traditional techniques rather than pictorial step-by-step instruction.

Does it include modern products or brand recommendations?
No, the text is an antique treatise republished with a new introduction and focuses on methods rather than contemporary brand comparisons.

Will it help with furniture restoration?
Yes, chapters on glazing, fillers and French polishing are directly applicable to restoration projects and refinishing older pieces.