Restor-a-Finish is a popular choice for furniture refinishing and repair due to its ease of use and ability to revitalize damaged surfaces. But with a wide range of colors available, choosing the right shade can be overwhelming. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the Restor-a-Finish color chart, understanding the nuances of each shade and making the perfect selection for your project. We'll explore the available colors, offer tips for choosing the right one, and answer frequently asked questions.
What Colors Does Restor-a-Finish Offer?
Restor-a-Finish offers a diverse palette of colors designed to match various wood tones and finishes. While the exact shades and availability may vary slightly depending on your retailer, the core colors generally include:
- Clear: A classic choice for enhancing the natural wood grain without altering the color. Ideal for protecting and restoring the original finish.
- Walnut: A rich, dark brown shade, perfect for darker wood types or for adding depth to existing finishes.
- Mahogany: A warm, reddish-brown hue that adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to furniture.
- Cherry: A slightly lighter, more reddish-brown than mahogany, capturing the characteristic color of cherry wood.
- Oak: A light to medium brown that captures the natural tones of oak wood.
- Medium Oak: A slightly darker version of the standard Oak, offering a richer, warmer tone.
- Dark Oak: A deep, rich brown shade ideal for darker oak finishes or for creating a more dramatic look.
- Black Walnut: An even deeper, almost black, shade than regular Walnut, providing a very dark and dramatic finish.
- Maple: A light, almost yellowish-brown shade closely resembling maple wood.
- Pine: A light, yellowish-brown color reflecting the typical tone of pine wood.
This is not an exhaustive list, and some retailers may carry additional or limited edition shades. Always check with your local hardware store or online retailer for the most up-to-date color availability.
How to Choose the Right Restor-a-Finish Color
Selecting the perfect color depends on several factors:
- The Original Finish: If you're restoring an existing piece, try to match the original color as closely as possible. Use a small, inconspicuous area to test the color before applying it to the entire piece.
- The Wood Type: Different wood types naturally have different color tones. Consider the natural color of the wood when choosing a Restor-a-Finish shade.
- The Desired Look: Do you want to maintain the original color or create a new look? If you're aiming for a dramatic change, opt for a color that contrasts sharply with the original finish.
What is the Difference Between Restor-a-Finish Colors?
The differences between Restor-a-Finish colors lie in their undertones and the depth of color. For instance, Walnut and Mahogany might both appear brown, but Walnut is cooler and darker, while Mahogany has warmer, reddish hues. Similarly, Oak and Maple are both lighter browns, but Maple tends to lean towards yellow, while Oak tends to be more neutral.
Can I Mix Restor-a-Finish Colors?
While not officially recommended by the manufacturer, it’s possible to experiment with mixing Restor-a-Finish colors to achieve custom shades. Start with small batches to test the results before applying to the entire piece.
Where Can I Find a Restor-a-Finish Color Chart?
You can often find Restor-a-Finish color charts at hardware stores that carry the product. Many online retailers also display color swatches and images. However, keep in mind that online images can vary slightly due to screen calibration.
Does Restor-a-Finish Have a Color Matching Service?
Restor-a-Finish itself doesn't offer a dedicated color-matching service. However, many experienced furniture refinishers can provide color matching services.
This guide should provide a solid foundation for selecting the perfect Restor-a-Finish color for your project. Remember to always test the color on a small, inconspicuous area first before applying it to the entire piece. Happy refinishing!
