Stain, Paint, or Seal? A Beginner’s Guide to Finishing Your Wood Projects

You’ve built something with your own two hands - go you!  Now it’s time to give it that final touch…but where do you even start?

Choosing between stain, paint, or clear sealer can feel overwhelming.  The good news?  There’s no “right” choice - it’s about the look you want and how your project will be used.

Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:

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1. Staining: For a Natural Wood Look

Stain highlights the natural beauty and grain of the wood.  It soaks in instead of sitting on top, giving a rich, earthy finish.

Best for:

• Rustic signs

• Farmhouse style furniture

• Projects where you love the wood’s character

Pros:

• Lets the grain show through

• Available in many colors

• Great for pine, oak, cedar, and more

Watch Out For:

• Uneven applicable on softwoods (use wood conditioner!)

• Longer dry time

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2. Painting: For Bolder Color or Clean Finishes

Painting gives you full coverage and endless color options.  What a sage green shelf?  A navy blue step stool? This is your lane.

Best for:

• Kids’ furniture or colorful decor

• Up cycled pieces with damage

• When you don’t love the wood’s look

Pros:

• Cover flaws

• Easy to customize with stencils or layers

• Quick refresh for old pieces

What Out For:

• Visible brush strokes (use foam rollers or sand between coats)

• Peeling over time if not sealed or primed correctly

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3. Sealing: For Protection and a Natural Look

Clear sealers or topcoats don’t add color - they protect what’s underneath.  Some enhance the wood’s tone slightly with a soft sheen.

Best For:

• Coasters, cutting boards, and tables

• Painted or stained pieces that need durability

• Projects exposed to moisture

Pros:

• Available in matte, satin, or gloss

• Water-based = low odor and fast drying

• Oil-based = durable and rich finish

Watch Out For:

• Yellowing (especially with oil based options)

• Build-up if over applied

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Quick Tips for a Smooth Finish:

• Always sand between steps

• Apply thin, even coats

• Let each layer fully dry

• Use a tack cloth to remove dust

• Test on a scrap piece first!

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Not Sure Where to Start?

Try this:

• Want the grain to show? Stain

• Want a clean, colorful look? Paint

• Want to protect your project? Seal

Sometimes you’ll even. Use two or tree together (like staining, then sealing for protection).

At Third Shift Crafts, we know the finish step can feel intimidating - but it’s also when your project comes to life.  So give yourself grace, take your time, and don’t be afraid to experiment.

You’ve got this.