A Complete Beginner's Guide to Wood Finishes and Sealants Table of Contents Choosing the Right Finish What Type of Project is this? Indoor vs. Outdoor considerations Food-safe options Types of Wood Finishes Oil-Based Finishes Water-Based Finishes Wax Finishes Shellac Finishes Lacquer Finishes Polyurethane Finishes Sealants Sanding sealers Spit coat sealers Dewaxed shellac as sealer Product examples Food Safety Understanding food safety and finishes curing vs drying specific recommendations --------------------------------------------------------------- Whether you're a seasoned pro or a complete novice, nailing that final finish is key to making your work look sharp. But with so many finishes and sealants out there, it can feel like you're lost in a maze of choices. This article explores the different types of wood finishes and...
Wood carving is a craft that has captured human imagination for centuries, transforming simple blocks of wood into intricate, beautiful works of art. Today, many of us spend so much time in front of a computer, on our phones, or stressed out by our work, its becoming increasingly important to take up creative hobbies. Wood carving is one of the hobbies that is increasing in popularity over the last few years. Though it may seem daunting at first, wood carving is approachable for anyone willing to try their hand at it. With the right tools, proper guidance, and a bit of patience, you can master the basics and develop your own unique style. At Schaaf Tools, we’re passionate about...
Pumpkin carving isn’t just for spooky faces anymore—just ask Daniel Miller, one of our talented customers who decided to carve an old lady… carving herself. Armed with our pen chisel set, Daniel turned an everyday pumpkin into a work of art, complete with wrinkles, arms, a functional mirror, and all the little details. It’s proof that with skill, the right tools (and a wild imagination), pumpkin carving can go way beyond jack-o'-lanterns! Now that you’ve seen the kind of magic that can happen, let’s get into how you, too, can become a pumpkin carving pro. Feeling inspired? For the rest of October, these Schaaf Tools wood carving kits are 15% off. Choosing the Best Pumpkin Carving Tools The secret...
Whittling is a rewarding and meditative hobby, but like any craft involving sharp tools, safety is paramount. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned carver, practicing proper safety techniques ensures both an enjoyable and accident-free experience. In this guide, we’ll explore some essential whittling safety practices, touching on the tools you need, proper techniques, and how to avoid common mistakes. 1. Use Sharp, Quality Tools One of the most common misconceptions is that dull knives are safer. In reality, dull blades require more force, increasing the risk of slippage and injury. Always keep your whittling knife or carving tools sharp to ensure clean, controlled cuts. Choosing the Right Whittling Knife Invest in a high-quality whittling knife designed specifically for carving....
Whittling, the age-old craft of carving shapes from wood using a knife, is both an art and a relaxing hobby. Whether you’re looking to create intricate designs or simple wooden figurines, whittling offers a perfect blend of creativity and craftsmanship. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything from essential tools to beginner-friendly techniques, ensuring you're set for success in your whittling journey. You can check out our own line of high quality whittling sets, each of which come with wood carving projects for beginners, here. 1. What Is Whittling? Whittling refers to the practice of carving wood into shapes using a handheld knife, typically a whittling knife or pocket knife. Unlike more formal wood carving, which can involve chisels,...
