The use of finishes Paper and board finishing - Wood finishing — AQA A-Level Design and Technology: Product Design
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The use of finishes Paper and board finishing - Wood finishing explained
Teak oil is a penetrating wood finish that soaks into the timber rather than forming a hard film on the surface.
Read the full explanation
It nourishes and protects the wood, enhances the natural grain and colour, and gives a warm, low-sheen appearance. Because it penetrates, teak oil is suited to interior and some exterior timber where a natural look is wanted, and it can be reapplied to maintain protection. It offers less surface build-up than varnish, so it does not create a thick protective layer, and it may need more frequent renewal. Application involves cleaning the surface, applying thin coats with a cloth or brush, allowing absorption, then wiping off excess and allowing it to cure. A designer chooses teak oil when appearance, ease of maintenance and a natural finish matter more than a hard, glossy barrier.
Your focus
- Describe how teak oil penetrates and protects wood.
- Explain the appearance and maintenance characteristics of a teak-oiled surface.
- Compare teak oil with a film-forming wood finish in a product context.
The use of finishes Paper and board finishing - Wood finishing exam tips
Marking Points
- Identifies teak oil as a penetrating wood finish that soaks into the timber rather than forming a surface film.
- Explains that teak oil enhances grain and colour and gives a natural, low-sheen appearance.
- States that teak oil protects the wood and can be reapplied to maintain that protection.
- Compares teak oil with film-forming finishes such as varnish, noting less surface build-up but a need for more frequent renewal.
Examiner Tips
- 💡Contrast teak oil with a film-forming finish to show understanding of how it works.
- 💡Link the choice of teak oil to a product context where a natural appearance and easy maintenance are valued.
- 💡Describe the application sequence briefly to demonstrate practical knowledge.
Common Mistakes
- Describing teak oil as a thick surface coating: correction is that it penetrates the wood and does not build a hard film.
- Assuming teak oil gives a high-gloss finish: correction is that it produces a natural, low-sheen appearance.
- Believing one application lasts indefinitely: correction is that teak oil needs periodic reapplication to maintain protection.