I am using a natural bee's wax, which is specifically for old pine. It is a mellow wax, which will provide a deep and rich colour. More details on this product are at the bottom of this page.

I am applying it evenly with a cloth. Notice I am wearing rubber gloves, these are important as the waxes contain chemicals that are not good for your skin, its also advisable to do this in a well ventilated area. Outside if possible.

You can see here how the wax really brings out the colour of the wood, products such as wax or oils are so much better than using varnish.

Varnish is plastic, and in my view a bad thing on furniture.

After applying 2 or 3 coats of wax, I buffed the stool with a dry cloth, as you can see it looks great and there is a nice sheen on my surface.

Here you can see the defect, which I think doesn't look too bad (Not good however) I couldn't avoid this as the other (underneath) side was much worse.

You can also see the miller dowel, neat and attractive contrast the lighter pine and darker walnut - its worth marking these in line for most pleasing results.

Sometimes it's best to celebrate these joints as opposed to hiding them.

In all its glory, the wonderfully simple step stool - with thanks to miller dowel.

Related Links:

• Miller dowel review (On Sawdustalley.co.uk) - Details of product and links to buy in UK and USA.
• Miller dowel website
• Fiddes Finishes (Wax used on this project)

  Many thanks to...