ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at the main options available in the market for paints, stains and varnishes, which perform both decorative and protective functions for joinery. Paints, stains and varnishes are made in similar ways, their particular characteristic s being chosen by the precise formulation. In this report we have drawn distinctions between products by their basic solvent and the source of their main ingredients-by how they are made, and not by type (paint, stain or varnish). Throughout the chapter, when we refer to ‘paints’ we include paints, stains and varnishes unless stated otherwise.
