Elisha Albretsen

Make Cheap Wood Look Expensive

Elisha Albretsen
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Duration:   11  mins

Description

Most woodworkers have a set of favorite wood species they prefer to work with, but not all species are readily available in every area, and sometimes the cost of materials can be prohibitive. To save money while still achieving the desired look for your project, you might consider making inexpensive wood look expensive. It’s easier than you might think, and Elisha “The Pneumatic Addict” shares some of her favorite techniques to help you do just that.

Choose the right “dupe wood” or substitute wood: When trying to make cheap wood look expensive, it’s essential to select a wood with characteristics similar to the more costly wood you’re trying to replicate. The closer the match, the easier it will be to achieve the desired result.

Grain matching matters: The grain of the wood is one of the most important factors to consider. Match a closed-grain wood with another closed-grain wood, and do the same for coarse or open-grain woods.

Every step in the finishing process counts: A successful finish involves several steps, and each one can help you achieve a closer match. Sanding, pre-stain conditioning, sealing the wood, choosing the right stain, and applying a topcoat all play a role in creating the ideal look. The color, tone, and shade of the final finish can be influenced by slight variations in product choice, surface preparation, and finishing techniques.

By incorporating these ideas, you might be surprised at how effectively you can make inexpensive wood look expensive. Hopefully, you can apply Elisha’s techniques to your next project and save a little money in the process.

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