Cheap and easy ways to finish?

**Decker87** · 10-17-2005, 11:04 PM

Hi, I make things out of wood as a hobby. I use a lot of 2x4's in construction of things, and I'm wondering if there's a simple way to make them look good. I actually like the color of plain pine a lot, but I can't really afford to cover things with veneering and spray paint usually just does not look good.

Are there any tricks you guys know of for making 2x4s look good on a budget?

**fifo28** · 10-18-2005, 06:27 AM

How about a wipe on finish. The Minwax wipe on poly is good. Brushed poly is also good. You could also use shelac.

There are alot of finish options and most are cheap. Just the product and a brush or rag.

**DougB** · 06-02-2010, 09:03 AM

I may be way off base here, but, I have made lots of Pine 2X4 furniture that I finished with Minwax stain and Polyurethane.

This coffee table was made from 2X4's and some 5/8" tongue and groove I got from Home Depot. The stain was Golden Pecan, and the Poly was a semi-gloss that was brushed on. I hate to paint any wood, even Pine.