1. Finishing materials Finishing products made from wood and metals by applying surface coatings- usually the final stage of manufacture but requiring a third of actual making time!

2. Reasons for applying a finish Surface protection Preserving the material Enhancing the aesthetic nature of the material for greater quality effect To improve the safety of the product To improve the durability of the material/product

3. A finishes specification Consider: Product’s environment and potential wear and tear on it Cost and sales revenue gain Maintenance intervals It’s ease of application and any issues relating to H&S

4. Finishes specific to wood Oils eg. Teak oil, linseed, vegetable oil, tung oil Polishes eg. French polish, Beeswax. Wood stain eg. In ‘wood shades’ or bright colours Sanding sealer a solvent –based, quick-drying lacquer Varnish- clear/coloured, gloss/matte Paint- numerous types

5. Finishes specific to metals Enamel, either painted or ‘baked’ using heat Plastic dip coating with ‘fluidised tank’ Powder coating- spray-baked Anodising- an electrolytic process for colouring aluminium components Electroplating- eg. on ironmongery to prevent corrosion Self finished eg. For aluminium, brass, stainless steel etc.

6. Achieving a commercially acceptable finish Surface preparation- filling, abrading, cleaning, priming Preparing your working area Careful application and re-application eg. by brush, roller, spray, cloth Careful laying up for drying

7. Safety factors COSHH- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Read the instructions on the pack! Obtain a data sheet/haz-card Protect yourself, if necessary with gloves, respirator etc And please consider the affect on others!