Furniture finishers sand furniture with sandpaper to obtain a smooth surface. Cracks in the wood are plugged with either agglutinant or putty. The article is then stained and varnished (for example, pine) or varnished only (for example, imbuia).
To stain the article, it is dipped into a solution which provides an even layer of colour over the entire surface. When dry, the bottom coat of sealer is sprayed on rapidly and accurately with a spray gun, care being taken to ensure that it is evenly sprayed and does not form drops.
The article is dried rapidly in a room equipped with fans which blow warm air directly onto it. The article is sandpapered again by hand and the lacquer or varnish is sprayed on. Usually three or more coats are applied and between coats it is sanded lightly.
Furniture finishers may specialise in sanding, staining or varnishing furniture.
Furniture finishers work with: different grades of sandpaper; stains and varnishes in various colours; tools such as spray guns and drying fans; agglutinant, putty and sealer.
Furniture finishers work indoors in workshops that are usually provided with ample light and ventilation. The work involves standing most of the day. The use of stains and varnishes necessitates the wearing of protective clothing. Furniture finishers may also wear masks to prevent the inhalation of wood dust.