Fiddes Wood Finishes

Why choose Fiddes?

Fiddes combines decades of experience in professional wood finishing with a broad range of traditional and modern products. Its finishes are developed for real woodworking and restoration applications, from furniture and cabinet work to flooring and worktops. Whether you need a traditional wax polish, a specialist shellac finish, or a durable hard wax oil, Fiddes offers products designed to deliver reliable results across a wide range of projects.

Can Fiddes finishes be applied over existing finishes?

Some can, but it depends on the product and the condition of the existing surface. Fiddes Supreme Wax Polish, for example, can be applied to bare or sealed wood, provided the surface is properly prepared. Other products, such as Hard Wax Oil, require the surface to be clean, dry, and free from previous finishes. Always check the individual product's preparation requirements before applying a new coating.

How do I prepare wood before applying a Fiddes finish?

Preparation depends on the finish, but the surface generally needs to be clean, dry, and free from dust, grease, and previous coatings where required. Sanding should follow the product's instructions, and any repairs, glue residue, or surface defects should be dealt with before finishing. Always test the product on an inconspicuous area or a similar piece of wood first, particularly when applying a tinted finish.

Why does the same Fiddes stain or oil look different on different areas?

The final colour is affected by the species, natural colour, grain, porosity, and condition of the wood. Softwoods and open-grained woods can absorb finishes differently from dense hardwoods, and the same tint may therefore produce noticeably different results. Always test your chosen finish on the actual wood, or a closely matching sample, before treating the whole piece.

What's the difference between Fiddes Hard Wax Oil and Supreme Wax Polish?

Hard Wax Oil is designed to provide a durable protective coating for interior wood surfaces, including floors and worktops. Supreme Wax Polish is a quick-drying wax finish used to enhance the appearance of bare or sealed wood, revive existing finishes, and build a desired level of sheen. They serve different purposes, so the right choice depends on the surface, the protection required, and the appearance you want to achieve.

Where can I use Fiddes Hard Wax Oil?

Fiddes Hard Wax Oil is formulated for interior wood flooring, furniture, and other wood surfaces, including kitchen worktops. It's designed to provide a durable, water-repellent finish for areas subject to wear. For furniture and other applications, check the product guidance to ensure the intended use and finish are suitable for your project.

How many coats of Fiddes Hard Wax Oil should I apply?

Fiddes recommends a maximum of two coats of Hard Wax Oil in general, although the recommended application can vary depending on whether the product is tinted or clear. A single coat of tinted Hard Wax Oil is generally followed by a clear coat for additional protection. Apply thinly and evenly, allowing the recommended drying time between coats.

Can I use Fiddes products to restore antique or period furniture?

Yes. Fiddes has a long-standing association with antique restoration and professional furniture finishing. Its range includes traditional wax polishes, shellac sealers, French polishes, and wood stains that can be used in restoration work. The appropriate product will depend on the original finish, the condition of the furniture, and whether you are restoring or changing its appearance.

How do I achieve a traditional French polished finish with Fiddes products?

French polishing is a specialist finishing technique that involves applying shellac polish in multiple thin layers, usually with a polishing rubber and suitable lubricant. Fiddes produces traditional shellac-based products for this type of work. The quality of the final finish depends on preparation, technique, and the compatibility of the products used.

How do I maintain wood finished with Fiddes products?

Maintenance depends on the finish. Waxed surfaces can generally be cleaned and re-waxed as required, while Hard Wax Oil surfaces can be cleaned, buffed, and re-coated when necessary. Use cleaning and maintenance products recommended for the specific finish, and avoid applying a new coating without checking whether the existing surface is compatible.