The Art of the Finish: Bringing Bespoke Furniture to Life

At Good Shepherd Design Co., our finishing process is where craftsmanship and customization truly shine. From the first sanding stroke to the final coat, every step is carefully considered to enhance the natural beauty of each bespoke piece. Whether you prefer a traditional stained finish or a modern hard wax oil, your furniture is finished with intention and artistry.

A Foundation of Handwork

Every bespoke piece begins with meticulous hand sanding. Unlike machine sanding alone, hand sanding allows us to feel every curve, edge, and surface. We gradually work through finer grits to create a smooth, touchable finish that enhances the natural grain of the wood. This attention to detail ensures that no corner is overlooked and that every surface is perfectly prepared for the next stage.

Stains That Enrich, Not Conceal

For clients who want depth of color while preserving the wood's natural texture, we offer a curated range of high-quality stains. These stains are hand-applied to bring out the unique patterns of hardwoods like White Oak, Maple, and Walnut. Once the stain is absorbed, we seal the piece with a durable clear topcoat to provide protection while allowing the rich tones and textures to shine through.

Best for:

• Traditional or rustic styles

• Clients seeking a specific color palette

• Enhanced contrast and visual depth

Natural Beauty with Hard Wax Oil

For a more natural, matte aesthetic, we recommend hard wax oil finishes—like Rubio Monocoat. This technique enhances the wood’s original tone and texture without adding artificial gloss. Unlike stains, hard wax oil penetrates and bonds with the wood at a molecular level, hardening from within and creating a soft, breathable surface.

Benefits of hard wax oil:

• Plant-based and non-toxic

• Easy to maintain and touch up

• Water- and stain-resistant

• Satin-smooth, low-sheen finish

Best for:

• Modern, minimal, or Scandinavian aesthetics

• Clients who want a natural look and feel

• Sustainability-conscious homeowners

Your Finish, Your Way

Every home is different—your finish should be too. Whether you prefer the color richness of a stain or the natural texture of hard wax oil, we’ll guide you through selecting the finish that best suits your lifestyle, interior style, and the hardwood species you choose.

At Good Shepherd Design Co., the finish isn’t an afterthought—it’s the final brushstroke on a piece designed just for you.

This is more than furniture. This is home.