The first thing I need to do is prepare a finish sample for the clients. I will present them with three options on a piece of wood that was actually used in the table. This way the sample will truly reflect the way the table will finish. I only use products that bring out the natural color of the wood. I do not use stains or dye. The dark sample below is achieved by using a chemical that reacts with the mahogany. It emulates 100 years of aging in just a few minutes. It has a quality and a depth that can not be achieved with stains. Every kind of wood has its own tricks. In this case the client choose the middle option. I was delighted and it was off to the races.

The first coat, a tongue oil varnish, is brushed on. This finish sinks into the wood and brings out the natural beauty. I don’t let the finish dry but rater wipe it off when it is still wet. This makes sure that the coat is even and not on the surface of the wood.

I set up the table top in the spray booth and prepare to spray on the water based finish. The product is very durable and as a bonus it is much better for the environment because it is not solvent based and made to very strict standards.

I use this spray gun to apply the first coat of the top coat.

It was hard to get an action shot but this gives the idea. I spray an even layer on the whole surface.

I use the reflection from this light to help see what I am doing. The light helps highlight the wet edge as I try to get an even layer of finish.

When the finish dries I sand it with fine sand paper. This begins the process of leveling the finish.

I spray it again and again and again. For the final sheen I rub out the finish with steel wool and a bit of wax to help give the table a fantastically smooth feel.

I always like to photograph the finished piece as it heads out the door. I am very happy with the way this table turned out so I will definitely want to add it to my Tables section of my website.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Tomorrow I deliver the table. I cant wait to see how it looks in its new home!

Coffee Table Commission
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
Part 7
Part 8
Part 9
Part 10

By Nico Yektai -
New York based designer/maker Nico Yektai opened the doors to his Hamptons studio in 1995 after completing the MFA program at the School For American Craft at the Rochester Institute of Technology. The rigorous technical training complimented his background in Art History, which he studied, at Hobart College in Geneva NY. Yektai has synthesized this background into a singular style that has gained him national attention. Visit nicoyektai.com for more information