The switch to organic, environmentally sound products isn’t new, and it’s certainly applicable to the world of woodworking. Whether you’re refinishing a beloved mid-century piece or simply wanting to preserve the beauty of your latest vintage find, choosing the best safe wood finishing products is crucial.
Mid-century furniture defined by its linear simplicity, natural shapes, and emphasis on functional design is a popular choice among interior decorators worldwide. As this furniture ages, there arises a need to refinish it while maintaining its original character and style. Here are some safe wood finishing products for your mid-century furniture.
## Tung Oil for Mid-Century Furniture
Tung oil, pressed from the nut of the eponymous tung tree, is one of the most popular natural finish options. Its usage dates back to ancient times, and it’s known for creating a strong, flexible, and water-resistant surface on wood. Although Tung oil takes a while to dry, it penetrates deep into the wood, enhancing the grain and leaving a beautiful matte finish behind that’s ideal for mid-century modern furniture. Always remember to air out the room while applying Tung oil, as it can emit VOCs during the drying process.
## Linseed oil for Mid-Century Furniture
Another popular natural wood finishing product for mid-century furniture is linseed oil. Derived from flax seeds, linseed oil enriches the wood’s natural color and emphasizes the grain pattern. As it dries, linseed oil offers layers of protection and a subtle sheen to the surface.
However, always opt for “raw” over “boiled” linseed oil; The latter often contains metallic drying agents and can be toxic if ingested or inhaled in high quantities. Drying times vary with linseed, typically taking several days longer than commercial finishing products to fully cure.
## Shellac for Mid-Century Furniture
Shellac, produced from the secretions of the Lac bug, provides a beautiful finish on mid-century furniture while adding a touch of rich, warm depth to the wood. It has been used as a sealant and finish for hundreds of years.
Shellac is very easy to apply and gives almost instant gratification due to its quick drying time. It is food safe and hypoallergenic. However, it’s worth noting that shellac isn’t the most durable choice for a finish, so it may not be the best option for surfaces intended for heavy use.
## Beeswax for Mid-Century Furniture
Beeswax is another excellent choice for refinishing mid-century furniture. By conditioning the wood, beeswax maintains its charm, protects it from the elements, and adds a slight gloss finish to enhance the piece’s aesthetics.
Application is simple – just rub the wax onto the furniture and let it soak in. Beeswax is perfectly safe, emitting no VOCs, and has a delightful honey aroma that adds a touch of cozy nature to your living space.
## Safecoat Acrylacq for Mid-Century Furniture
For those looking for a more robust finish, Safecoat Acrylacq is a safe, water-based alternative that gives wood a resilient, crystal clear finish. It mimics the performance of traditional lacquer while avoiding its toxicity. It dries quickly, resists blushing, and scratches, making it perfect for restoring mid-century pieces.
## PolyWhey Furniture Finish
PolyWhey Furniture Finish harnesses the power of whey protein, a byproduct of cheese making, to create a durable, safe finish. It’s available in satin or semi-gloss, and it gives a clear finish that lets the beauty of the wood shine through. Notably, PolyWhey has achieved the highest level of VOC compliance and is safe for everyone, including children.
## ECOS Wood Shield Varnish
ECOS Wood Shield Varnish is another non-toxic, water-based product that safeguards your furniture. Its unique formulation, free of VOCs, offers durability and longevity akin to conventional varnishes. This product stands out for its fast drying time and easy application process.
In conclusion, there are multiple options for safe, organic wood finishes for your beloved mid-century furniture. The key is finding the right balance between protective qualities, ease of application, aesthetic appeal, and of course, safety. From oil finishes like Tung oil and linseed oil to varnishes like Safecoat Acrylacq, PolyWhey, and ECOS Wood Shield, there is an array of products to help bring out the beauty of your mid-century furniture, all while ensuring better air quality and less environmental impact.
## Note on Application
Regardless of the type of product you choose, ensure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application for best results. Common tools used for application include a clean cloth, natural bristle brush, or foam brush. Apply the finish in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry before adding another. After finishing, let the furniture cure in a clean, dust-free environment.
Appreciating mid-century furniture means also valuing the environment and human health. By utilizing these safe, non-toxic finishing products, you preserve the charm and style of your mid-century piece while promoting indoor air quality and sustainability.
