What are the best types of wood stains and finishes for indoor woodworking projects?

Choosing the right wood stain and finish is essential to achieving a beautiful and long-lasting result in indoor woodworking projects. Here are some of the best options to consider:

• Oil-based stains and finishes: These are some of the most popular choices for indoor woodworking projects because they penetrate deeply into the wood and enhance the natural beauty of the grain. They are also very durable and can provide a rich and warm finish. However, they tend to dry slowly and emit strong fumes, so proper ventilation and safety measures are necessary.
• Water-based stains and finishes: These options are becoming increasingly popular because they are easy to clean up and dry quickly. They also emit fewer fumes and are better for the environment. However, they do not penetrate the wood as deeply as oil-based options and can result in a slightly less rich finish.
• Lacquer finishes: These options are very durable and can provide a high-gloss finish. They dry quickly and can be sanded and recoated easily. However, they tend to be more difficult to apply than other finishes and require specialized equipment for best results.
• Polyurethane finishes: These options are also very durable and can provide a clear and glossy finish. They are easy to apply and dry quickly. However, they can yellow over time and may require sanding and refinishing periodically.