Gary,
I have a project where I would like to match the finish and color of the my home's woodwork as close as possible. The present woodwork in the house is 30 years old. I have been experimenting with scraps of left over wood with poor results. Do you have a resource you would recommend (person, book, website, retail store) for advise?
Hi Jeffy,
Matching colors and finish can be a delightful foray into the world of finishing. Or
it can teach you how to throw a paint brush very well.
Finishing as all know is part art and part alchemy. Experimentation is the only way to go. As for resources, Jeff Jewett has the best book out there now: The Complete Illustrated Guide to Finishes, Taunton Press. He writes with clarity, as if, as if!, he hasn't sniffed too many fumes. So I'd try him first. I haven't been to his site but he also sells finishes under the name Homestead Finishes.
Color matching can be tough depending on the wood and age you're trying to match. Often a seal coat of shellac, stain conditioner, or even dilute rabbit skin glue gives a good base on which to start your color experiments. These will even out the dyes or stains better than just applying color to bare wood.
Finally, since you're here, I have to tell you that we have a finishing class coming up in March with Rollie Johnson. The five day class is on Furniture Repair and Refinishing. He did refinishing work for 25 years so coloring is something he knows well. Check it out on our site. It might be just what you need to get some in person expert help.
Thanks for your question. Gary
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