I've got this small table made mainly from pine and a bit of cedar, and I'm honestly loving the natural, unfinished look of the wood. I've been considering options like staining or painting, but it just feels right as it is. The table's top and shelf are single, solid pieces of pine, and I want to know if it's a bad idea to leave them bare. The table will live indoors, by my desk, only getting indirect sunlight 95% of the time, so it shouldn't face extreme conditions. There's some humidity from cooking nearby, but I'm pretty careful with spills and general usage. Is it really fine to leave it unfinished, or should I bite the bullet and apply a finish to keep it in great shape for the long haul?
3 Answers
Just a heads up, bare wood does change color over time, but it often ends up looking even better! Also, consider a soap finish if you want something minimal. It's easy to apply and keeps the wood looking nice without too much fuss.
If you’re okay with a little wear and tear over time, go for it! I’ve had unfinished shelves for years, and they still look good. Just be aware that humidity can make them crack, and mold can be an issue if left untreated. A light coat of shellac could help protect them without losing that natural look. Just test it on the underside first to make sure you like it!
You can definitely leave it unfinished if you want, but just know it's not protected against spills or stains. Also, after a while, it might look a bit grubby from handling. But if you're comfortable taking that risk, there’s no rule against it!