The processes of finishing having been described, it now remains to explain varieties of finishing in use; these are largely derived from the peculiar qualities of the different varnishes used, for full explanation of which see article Varnishes. Polishing-varnishes, which are very hard and durable, are so called because their surface can be brought to a high luster by rubbing with the proper materials. Flowingor finishing-varnishes contain more oil than polishing-varnishes, dry more slowly, and are softer, but their peculiar qualities are brilliancy and durability, fitting them for work requiring a brilliant gloss, such as veneered panels. Rubbing-varnishes are those that dry sufficiently hard to admit of being rubbed to a smooth surface. Turpentine varnishes, being the cheapest variety are employed for cheap work, such as common chairs, bedsteads, etc. In general terms it may be said that the particular filler, stain or other preliminary application used exercises on important influence over the appearance of the finish, and that a great variety of combinations are possible. For different woods different fillers are used, the basis in most cases being the same, the difference being principally in the coloring material, and this is capable of great variation, to suit individual tastes. The same is true of stains, and under the head of Stains and Fillers will be found all needed information concerning the applications proper for different woods, with methods for using them. The varnish or other covering material used subsequently, will here be treated of separately.

Dead-Finish

This term is applied to the finish produced by the reduction of any of the rubbing varnishes with powdered pumice-stone and raw linseed oil, (see Rubbing) the surface thus produced being left in the semi-lustrous state, by omitting the polishing process. It is now more used than any other for body work, shellac varnish being generally employed because of its adaptation to the requirements of fine cabinet-work, and its properties of quick and hard drying. Copal, anime and amber varnishes are also used, but are slower drying. Veneered panels are usually "flowed" or "polished" when the body work is dead-finished. The number of coats required depends somewhat upon the quality of the filler, but usually three coats, and sometimes less are amply sufficient.

Varnish Finish

For cheap work - One coat of filler or stain, followed by one coat of cheap turpentine varnish, without rubbing. In this class of work, the brilliancy of the gloss and covering qualities of the varnish are principally considered. The cheaper turpentine varnishes have a brilliant gloss, and dry very hard, but the gloss is not permanent, and after drying, the gum is very brittle and easily cracked and broken. The gum used is principally common resin.