Jenkins

Why choose W.S. Jenkins wood finishes?

W.S. Jenkins is one of the oldest remaining manufacturers of high-quality traditional wood finishes, widely respected by antique restorers for the quality and consistency of its products. Made in Tottenham, London, using recipes maintained for nearly a hundred years, Jenkins’ range includes traditional French polishes, professional wood oil stains, grain fillers, waxes, and specialist restoration materials. What sets Jenkins apart is the breadth of traditional products it continues to manufacture.

While other manufacturers have discontinued older recipes as demand has declined, Jenkins has held firm, producing essential restoration materials such as Jecofil Grain Filler, a wide variety of French Polishes, and professional wood oil stains. The internationally recognised Harrell’s Wax range is also valued for its quality and traditional nourishing properties. From Finishing Spirit and Antiquing Fluid to Paste Floor Wax and traditional shellac polishes, Jenkins continues to supply the materials relied upon by generations of craftspeople.

Why do professional restorers continue to use traditional Jenkins formulas?

Many antique restorers use the same materials they were trained with, developing a familiarity with how particular products behave on different woods and finishes. Jenkins' traditional formulas have earned a loyal following because they provide continuity between generations of restoration work. This familiarity matters. When working on valuable or historic furniture, using a product with a proven track record can be preferable to experimenting with an unfamiliar modern alternative.

What makes traditional wood finishing products different from modern alternatives?

Traditional finishing products are often valued for their character, working properties, and compatibility with established restoration techniques. Materials such as shellac polishes, waxes, grain fillers, and oil stains allow restorers to build up finishes gradually, match existing surfaces, and preserve the appearance of antique furniture.

Jenkins continues to manufacture many of these specialist products, including varieties of French Polish and Jecofil grain filler, rather than discontinuing them as demand for traditional restoration materials changes.

Why should I choose Jenkins for French polishing products?

French polishing is a traditional furniture finishing technique that uses shellac-based polish to create a smooth, lustrous surface with depth and clarity. It remains an important method for restoring and finishing fine furniture, particularly where the character of the original finish needs to be preserved. Jenkins produces a wide variety of French Polishes, allowing restorers to select materials suited to different woods, colours, and finishing requirements.

What is Harrell's Wax, and why is it popular with restorers?

Harrell's Wax is a range of traditional wax polishes manufactured by W.S. Jenkins. It is internationally recognised for its quality and nourishing properties, and is used to enhance, protect, and maintain wooden surfaces. Traditional wax finishes remain popular because they can be worked into existing finishes, renewed over time, and used to achieve the soft sheen associated with well-maintained antique furniture. Harrell's Wax is particularly valued by restorers who prefer established materials and traditional finishing methods.

How can I achieve a traditional finish on restored furniture?

The choice of finishing material can make a significant difference to the appearance and character of restored furniture. Jenkins produces a wide variety of French Polishes, professional wood oil stains, and traditional wax polishes, allowing restorers to select materials suited to the finish they are working to achieve. Its established formulations are particularly relevant when working on antique furniture or restoring an existing finish.

How do I get the best possible finish using French polish?

The final stages of French polishing require suitable finishing materials to refine the surface. Jenkins Finishing Spirit is a clear spirit containing a touch of shellac, and is commonly used for removing the last coat of French polish. It can also be applied through a rubber and used as a thin shellac polish, making it a versatile material for French polishers.

What's the best product for removing stains and rust?

Staining and rust can affect a variety of surfaces encountered during restoration and maintenance. Jenkins Oxalic Acid Crystals are used as a stain and rust remover and can be applied to a variety of surfaces. They provide a useful option when dealing with unwanted staining as part of a restoration process.

HELP! My new metal fittings look really out of place on this antique. What can I do?

New brass, copper, and bronze fittings can look out of place when used on antique furniture or within a restoration project. Jenkins Antiquing Fluid can be used to give these metals an antique appearance. The degree of colouration depends on the dilution of the fluid, allowing the treatment to be adjusted to the desired effect.

HELP! I need a specific product that isn’t listed.

Restorate offers a carefully curated range of W.S. Jenkins products. If you require a product that is not currently listed on our website, contact us on 01285 831668 to request a back order. We’re confident we can source any traditional restoration materials you are looking for.