Chapter I: Preface

The subject of wood-finishing is one that interests every person who has anything to do with the construction or decoration of buildings, be he architect, carpenter and joiner, painter, decorator or carver, and it is to meet the requirements of these artists and artisans, in these respects, that this work has been prepared.

In order to make the book as complete as possible it has been necessary to consult a variety of authorities on the subject, and cull from them whatever in my opinion—based on experience—I thought best, and here and there add to, or eliminate, such matter as my experience proved to be good on the one hand, and what I thought useless or absurd on the other.

I am of course aware that there are some methods of finishing that I have not touched upon; such as the finishing of musical instruments, toys, wooden bric-a-brac, lacquered Japanned ware, walking sticks, etc., etc., but as this work is only intended for the finishing of wood-work employed in the construction and completion of buildings, it was thought better to confine it to that department alone; thereby keeping its cost within reasonable limits.

Among the works drawn from I may mention, CABINET-MAKING AND UPHOLSTERY, THE BUILDER AND WOOD-WORKERS, CARPENTRY AND BUILDING, SCIENTIFIC AMERICAN, FURNITURE MEN’S MANUAL, SPON’S WORKSHOP RECEIPTS, THE WORKSHOP COMPANION, ENGLISH MECHANIC, HOUSE PAINTING AND DECORATING, THE PAINTERS MAGAZINE AND COACH PAINTER, ENCYCLOPEDIA BRITANNICA, ninth edition, and many other works.

While believing the work, as now presented to be equal, if not superior to any published on the subject; I feel that it is defective in some minor points; as it would be impossible to convey to the mind of the operator all the minutiæ of each and every process required in wood-finishing; for the perfect wood-finisher can only be the outcome of experience and observation added to the knowledge and instructions derived from the teachings of others. The latter is offered in this volume; the experience and observation must rest with the learner; and if he takes advantage of his opportunities and masters all the details offered herewith, there is no valid reason why he should not become an expert WOOD-FINISHER.

FRED T. HODGSON.

NEW YORK,
_August, 1892_.