Finish Line: Choosing the Perfect Wood Finish for Your Furniture

212designstudios
Jul 7, 2025
2 min read

By 212 Studios | Bespoke Furniture · Handcrafted to Last

PU finished walnut table by 212 Studios, showcasing natural grain and craftsmanship.

The Importance of Wood Finish

A wood finish isn’t just a final coat — it defines the tone, texture, and longevity of your bespoke furniture. Whether you want glossy modernity or rustic warmth, finishes protect and perfect your piece. At 212 Studios, finish selection is part of our custom design process.

🔍 Popular Wood Finishes Breakdown

Applying natural oil to walnut wood, showcasing rich grain and handcrafted detail

1. Oil Finish

Appearance: Natural, ranging from matte to satin
Durability: Moderate, simple to upkeep
Ideal For: Walnut, oak, and classic mid-century designs

💡 212 Studios Tip: Highlight the natural beauty and grain.

Brushing varnish onto reclaimed wood to enhance texture and preserve character.

2. Varnish

Look: Slight gloss, vintage feel
Durability: High — protects against weather and UV
Best For: Reclaimed wood, rustic and farmhouse furniture

💡 Preserves both story and structure.

Epoxy resin creates a bold, glass-like finish in this bespoke river table concept by 212 Studios.

3. Epoxy Resin

Look: Glass-like depth, bold contrast
Durability: Extreme — waterproof and UV resistant
Best For: Statement tables, bar tops, art pieces
💡 Great for dramatic bespoke furniture designs.

Melamine polish adds a sleek, modern edge to custom cabinetry by 212 Studios.

4. Melamine

Look: Modern,glossy to matte finish
Durability: Medium–high
Best For: Sleek, gallery-style custom pieces

💡 Spray application for flawless finish.

Polyurethane finish adds sleek protection to a modern tabletop.

5. Polyurethane
- Look: Glossy or satin finish
- Durability: Very high — water, scratch, and stain resistant
- Best For: Dining tables, work desks, kitchen islands
  
  💡 Use water-based for clear tones; oil-based for warm highlights.

Comparison Table

Finish	Look	Durability	Best Use
Oil	Matte glow	Medium	Natural designs
Varnish	Soft sheen	High	Rustic pieces
Epoxy	Glassy bold	Very High	Statement tables
Melamine	Matte/ gloss	Med–High	Contemporary designs
Polyurethane	Gloss/satin	High	Dining, everyday use

Final Thoughts

The perfect finish depends on your vision, lifestyle, and the story your piece will tell.

At 212 Studios, we tailor every project from wood /veneer species to the last polish to create bespoke furniture that’s built to last and meant to be admired.