Finishing Comparison Guide

Use this chart to compare finishes based on their appearance, durability and application. For buying information, just click on the link above the product image. For more information about using these three criteria to choose your finish, see our article "Start to Finish".

Wipe on Finishes
When applying wipe-on type products, we recommend using lint-free cotton or a high-quality Cheeze Cloth.
PRODUCT	CHARACTERISTICS AND QUALITIES	APPEARANCE	DURABLILITY AND USAGE
Bartley's Gel Varnish	Easy to apply and very low odor, too! Quick drying.	Depending on the number of coats applied, the finish will be flat (fewest coats) to a satin sheen (more coats).	Good to very good durability. Suggested for use on chairs, dressers, and chests. Also ideal for use on molding and woodwork.
Sam Maloof's Poly/Oil by Rockler	Gives a very professional looking, handsome finish yet is relatively easy to use.	When used alone, you'll get a satin to semi-gloss finish with good chatoyance. Adds warmth to natural wood color.	Good durability. World-renowned furniture maker Sam Maloof uses this in combination with the Sam Maloof Oil/Wax (see below) for his museum-quality tables, rocking chairs, and other furniture.
Sam Maloof's Oil/Wax by Rockler	This oils-and- beeswax formula is made to be used in conjunction with Sam Maloof's Poly/Oil finish.	Use after applying Sam Maloof's Poly/Oil finish to increase chatoyance and give a rich, semi-gloss appearance.	See above. Oil/Wax formula is recommended for use on furniture that won't be exposed to excessive heat or moisture.
Arm-R-Seal by General Finishes	Deeply penetrates wood and builds to a highly protective finish.	Available in satin, semi-gloss, or gloss.	Excellent. Our most durable wipe-on finish due to the high polyurethane content. Great for kitchen tables and other pieces that need to stand up to heat, moisture, and alcohol.
General Finishes Nordic Oil	Formulated of pure oils, phenolic resins, and drying agents that goes on easily. Non-toxic when dry, meaning it can be used on surfaces that will come into contact with food.	Flat to satin-sheen finish.	Excellent durability. Water and abrasion resistant. A good choice for highly burnished turned surfaces, such as bowls and vases. Also great for walking sticks and chairs --even table tops.
General Finishes Danish Oil	High linseed oil content penetrates deeply into wood. Tried-and-true and easy to use.	Flat sheen with "open pore" appearance.	Fair durability. Use on indoor furniture and decorative items. Requires reapplication over time.
Woodburst Chinawood Oil	Designed especially for outdoor use, but can be used indoors as well.	Flat to satin sheen.	Good to very good durability. Helps protect wood from elements. Great for use on decks, outdoor furniture, picnic tables, and backyard play sets.
General Finishes Salad Bowl Finish	Made to be 100% safe for use on any wood surface that comes into contact with food. Varnish/oil blend.	Flat to satin sheen.	Good durability. Use on salad bowls, wooden spoons, cutting boards, etc.
General Finishes Toy Maker's Finishes	Safe for use on children's toys and furniture. Applies easily like an oil, yet looks like a varnish.	Flat to satin sheen.	Good to very good durability. Use on bare wood or stained children's furniture and toys.
Brush on Finishes
PRODUCT	CHARACTERISTICS AND QUALITIES	APPEARANCE	DURABLILITY AND USAGE
General Finishes Poly/Acrilic Waterbase	Very fast drying and easy to apply. Easy water clean-up.	Your choice of satin or gloss. Virtually clear so it adds almost no color to wood.	Good to very good. Use on chairs, dressers, chests, molding and woodwork.
General Finishes EF High Performance Waterbase Polyurethane	"EF" stands for environmentally friendly! Fast-drying. Easy water clean-up.	Your choice of satin or gloss. Virtually clear, so it adds almost no color to wood.	Excellent durability. Tough enough for kitchen/dining room tables. Durable enough even for floors!