Matte and natural finish, or high gloss satin finish?

Vincent Alexandersson
3 days ago
3 min read

Finish Guide: Secret of Matt vs. High-Gloss Finish

To Master a Matte and natural finish, or high gloss satin finish? Whats the secret?

Because Vinnie's UPO (Universal Penetrating Oil) features an ultra-small molecular structure, it penetrates deep into the wood fibers rather than just sitting on top. All natual without VOC and toxins. this is what sets Vinnie's Oil apart from other treatments. This unique formula gives you total control over your final aesthetic. allowing you to easily dial in everything from a natural, organic matt finish to a mirror-like, high-gloss shine just by adjusting your preparation and technique. Follow this Guide if you want to know how to do it.

Preparation (The Foundation)

Regardless of which finish you choose, proper prep ensures a flawless result:

Sand your piece up to your target grit (see options below).
Raise the grain (Water Pop): Wipe the wood down with a damp sponge or spray a light mist of water across the surface to raise loose wood fibers. Let it dry completely, then do a quick, light pass with fine sandpaper to knock down the fuzz. This ensures your surface stays butter-smooth. This also helps absorb the oil into the fibres of the wood where it will cure if you use a hardening oil like Vinnies Oil. This should be your standard for any project where you want real protection. Paraffin based oils never cures, and you will have to reapply every week with normal use.

Option 1: The Natural Matt Finish

Best for a natural, organic feel that highlights the raw texture of the wood without a heavy sheen.

Step 1: Sanding
Sand the wood smoothly up to 220 or 320 grit.
Step 2: Grain Raising
Perform the water-pop process to lock in ultimate smoothness, and let the wood dry.
Step 3: First Application
Apply a generous coat of Vinnie's UPO. Allow the small molecules to penetrate deeply into the wood pores.
Step 4: Buffing & Excess Removal
After 1-2h, vigorously buff the surface and wipe away all excess oil with a clean microfiber cloth. An even application leaving no pooling oil behind is key to a clean, matt look.
Step 5: Optional Curing
Let it cure. You can stop right here with a single, gorgeous, protective UPO treatment, or apply a second thin coat the next day if the wood is thirsty or the area is exposed. If you use no wax or Eternal seal on top. 2 Layers is what we recommend for untreated wood.

Option 2: The High-Gloss / Mirror Finish

Best for statement pieces like walnut tables where you want a sleek, ultra-smooth, light-reflecting sheen. You can achieve this with the very same products, just using a different method.

Step 1: High-Grit Sanding
Sand your project progressively up to 800 grit before your first oil application.
Step 2: Grain Raising
Water-pop the surface to raise the fibers, let it dry, and knock down the fuzz lightly.
Step 3: First Application of UPO
Apply your first layer of Vinnie's UPO. Let it penetrate deeply, then buff off all excess oil thoroughly. Let it cure overnight. (at least 24h)
Step 4: Polishing (The Magic Step)
The next day, we recommend using Abralon 2000 pad or similair (or go all the way up to 4000 grit after the 2000grit sanding, if you want an extreme, hyper-glossy surface) and polish the surface. This mechanical polishing builds incredible clarity and smoothness.
Step 5: Second Application
Apply a second thin layer of Vinnie's UPO to lock in the depth and feed the wood grain further. Since the surface now is very smooth and dont absorb as quickly as before. It's recommended you leave the oil for at least 2h before polishing/buffing. - Now buff off any residue completely. You now neeed 3 days for the oil to fully cure.
Step 6: Final Protection
You can leave it at the high-gloss UPO stage, or seal it further by finishing with a coat of Vinnie's Wax or Eternal Seal for maximum durability and water resistance. An extra coat of eternal seal at this stage will give you even more sheen, and a coat that seals the wood on the top surface. While the UPO penetrated the fibres and cured from within the wood.