Transforming Your Wood Furniture: A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Arlington Woodworks No. 524
Wood furniture holds a timeless charm, but over time, it can lose its luster. Whether you’re rejuvenating an old coffee table or finishing a new DIY project, Arlington Woodworks No. 524 can help you bring out the best in your wood—safely and sustainably. This guide will walk you through the steps to transform your wood furniture using our 100% organic wood finish.
What You’ll Need
- Arlington Woodworks No. 524
- Soft, lint-free cloth or applicator pad (An old white t-shirt works great too)
- Multi-purpose Cleaner or mild soapy water solution (Optional)
- Sandpaper (optional, for preparation)
- Clean, dry towel (A paper towel can be used here)
- Gloves (optional)
Step 1: Prepare Your Surface
Before applying Arlington Woodworks No. 524, it’s essential to prep the wood surface. This may sound scary, but what it really means is that you need to clean the surface prior to applying the finish for best results. Follow these simple steps to get your wood ready:
Clean the Wood: Wipe the furniture with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust, dirt, and debris. I typically use a multi-purpose cleaner that we purchase from Grove Collaborative for cleaning my furniture prior to applying a fresh coat of Arlington Woodworks No. 524. You can also use a mild soapy water solution. No matter what method you use to clean the surface, be sure to let it dry completely before applying the finish.
Sand If Necessary (Optional): If the wood has an old finish that is damaged or rough spots, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper. This will help the wood absorb the finish evenly. Remove sanding dust with a dry towel.
Step 2: Apply Arlington Woodworks No. 524
Good news, preparation was the hardest part of the process. Now it’s time to bring your wood back to life:
Apply the Finish: Using a soft, lint-free cloth or applicator pad, scoop a small amount of Arlington Woodworks No. 524. Rub it into the wood in the direction of the grain, covering the surface evenly. If you don’t have a lint-free cloth, an old white t-shirt can be used for applying this finish. Just cut a section of the shirt to make it easier to use, scoop some finish out and apply it to your wood surface. If you get a little lint from the t-shirt on the furniture, simply remove it in the buffing part of the process. Arlington Woodworks No. 524 doesn’t use any harsh drying agents, so the lint will not cure into the finish like it would with polyurethanes and other chemical finishes.
Use Sparingly: A little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and add more as needed to avoid over-application. Since Arlington Woodworks No. 524 is a natural finish, the wood will only take up as much of it as it can absorb. The only real concern with overapplication is that you will end up removing any excess finish that isn’t absorbed into the wood when you buff it in the final step.
Step 3: Let It Soak
Allow the wood finish to penetrate the surface for 10-15 minutes. This step ensures the product nourishes the wood and brings out its natural beauty. I tend to get impatient, so for this step I typically set a timer. The wood fibers will only take up as much as they can so there isn’t really much benefit in waiting longer than about 15 minutes to remove any unabsorbed finish and buff out the surface.
Step 4: Buff the Surface
Using a clean, dry cloth, buff the surface in circular motions to remove excess finish and achieve a smooth, polished look. This step enhances the natural sheen of the wood. I almost always use a clean paper towel for this step. I start by folding the paper towel in half, this effectively gives me 4 clean sides for wiping down the entire surface. Initially, focus on removing any unabsorbed finish. Once I feel confident that I have removed all the excess finish, I will switch to buffing the surface. I know I am ready to buff when I can wipe the paper towel across the surface, and see little to no finish transferred to it.
Step 5: Admire Your Work
Step back and admire your rejuvenated wood furniture! The natural beauty of the grain will be enhanced, and the wood will be protected against wear and tear.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- For older or very dry wood, a second application may be beneficial.
- Always test the finish on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire piece.
Why Choose Arlington Woodworks No. 524?
Made with 100% organic ingredients, Arlington Woodworks No. 524 is safe for your home, your furniture, and the environment. It’s easy to use, free of harmful chemicals, and perfect for anyone—from first-time DIYers to seasoned woodworkers.
Ready to Transform Your Furniture?
Bring your wood furniture back to life with Arlington Woodworks No. 524. Order yours today and experience the difference of an eco-friendly wood finish.
