The easiest and gentlest technique for removing the old finish is chemical stripping. This is particularly true for smaller pieces of the woodwork, which you can remove from the wall.

A true French polish finish requires about 10 to 15 coats of clear shellac. It is rubbed on to the wood surface with a "fad" (a wad of cotton or gauze). Wrap the fad with a lint-free cotton cloth.

A French polish finish is an ideal choice for natural cherry woodwork. It will not hold up to harsh abuse like several coats of gloss urethane will, but a fine French polish finish will handle ...

If so, hold a bright light (work light or flashlight) close to the woodwork to highlight every small bump. Circle the defects with a pencil, then go back to the filler and sanding steps. Spot-prime ...

The latter soaks into the wood, producing a very natural looking matte or satin finish that is closer to the wood than shellac. “The character of the wood seems to come through the finish more with ...

Fill dents, cracks and small holes in finished furniture, flooring and interior woodwork. Fill gouges and cracks in exterior woodwork. When used this way, it usually has to be painted.