Wood Finishing Reference Chart

Carl Duguay

This handy chart explains what you need to know about the 6 most popular wood finishes.

Varnish

Varnish chart

Shellac

shellac chart

Oil/Varnish

Oil Varnish chart

Lacquer

Lacquer chart

Correction: Jeff Richardson of Wood Essence Finishes (woodessence.com) points out that Target Coatings Ultima Spray Lacquer is not a toxic finish to apply. Target USL is a waterbourne lacquer, not a nitro-cellulose lacquer; it’s not non-flammable, featuring very low volatile organic compounds and zero hazardous air pollutants.

Oils

Oils chart

Waterbased

waterborne chart

Published May 16, 2008 | Last revised January 26, 2026

Carl Duguay

Carl is a furniture maker based in Victoria, BC and the senior editor at Canadian Woodworking & Home Improvement Magazine. More articles by Carl Duguay

Leave a Comment