Staining and Polishing - Complete Guide to Varnishing & Finishes

In this review of Staining and Polishing - Including Varnishing & Other Methods of Finishing Wood, with Appendix of Recipes, the bottom line is simple: this republished vintage manual is for anyone who wants a thorough, practical reference to traditional wood finishing. The book's greatest strength is its comprehensive, hands-on instruction and the included catalogue of recipes, which make it more than a historical curiosity - it is a usable workshop companion for craftspeople seeking reliable techniques for staining, varnishing and enamelling.

Key Features

• Complete practical instruction: Step-by-step guidance on preparing and staining wood helps readers achieve consistent results on a variety of projects.
• Wide range of finishing methods: Coverage of enamelling, varnishing, ebonising and impregnation offers techniques suited to many traditional and restoration tasks.
• Catalogue of recipes: A useful appendix of stain and finish formulas gives readers proven mixes they can recreate or adapt in the workshop.
• Colour guidance: A built-in colour chart and discussion of colour schemes helps with choosing appropriate tones and matching finishes.
• Species and material notes: Information on woods for staining and special treatments like wickerwork or relief material aids material-specific decisions.

Who It's For

This volume is aimed at hobby woodworkers, furniture restorers and DIYers who appreciate clear, traditional instructions and want a practical reference for staining and finishing by hand. The book's stepwise approach and recipes make it especially useful for small workshops and restoration projects where historic methods are preferred.

Those seeking modern chemical safety data sheets, contemporary synthetic product ranges, or glossy photographic tutorials may find parts of this vintage text less immediately aligned with current commercial product labels and modern factory processes. It is best used alongside up-to-date safety guidance when working with older finish formulas.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Comprehensive techniques for staining and polishing that cover practical workshop needs.
• Appendix of recipes provides real formulas to reproduce historic finishes and effects.
• Includes guidance on a wide variety of materials, from wicker to relief carvings, making it versatile for many projects.

Cons

• As a republished vintage book, some formulations reflect older practices and should be used with modern safety precautions.

Specifications

Title	Staining and Polishing - Including Varnishing & Other Methods of Finishing Wood
Author / Brand	J C S Brough
Contents include	Stains for Woods, Preparing the Wood, Varnishing, Ebonising, Dyeing Woods, Colour Chart
Special features	Appendix of recipes and specially commissioned new introduction
Audience	Woodworkers, restorers, hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts
Format	Republished vintage edition, high-quality affordable printing

Our Verdict

This republished manual is a valuable, affordable reference for anyone who prefers hands-on, traditional finishing techniques. Its clear instructions and recipe appendix make it particularly good value for restorers and hobbyists who want reliable methods rather than modern product marketing; just pair it with current safety guidance when handling older formulas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this book include stain formulas?
Yes, it includes a catalogue of recipes and practical formulas in the appendix that readers can reproduce or adapt.

Is the book suitable for beginners?
Yes, the step-by-step instructions and colour chart make it accessible to beginners, though some prior workshop experience helps with safety and tools.

Are the methods modern?
The book documents traditional methods and vintage formulations; readers should combine its guidance with modern safety practices and current product options where appropriate.