Choosing the Right Finish: Oil, Poly, or Paint?

Cutting a part is only half the job. The finish is what makes a project look professional, last longer, and communicate the right tone. At BDR DSG LAB, we spend as much time thinking about finishes as we do about cutting paths, because the wrong finish can undermine an otherwise perfect build.

Here’s a breakdown of the three most common finishing options we use — oil, polyurethane, and paint — and how to choose the right one for your project.

Oil Finishes

Think linseed oil, Danish oil, or Rubio Monocoat. Oils soak into the wood fibers instead of sitting on top.

• Pros:

  • Brings out natural grain and warmth

  • Easy to apply and re-apply

  • Low sheen, natural look

• Cons:

  • Limited protection against scratches or water

  • Needs maintenance over time

• Best For:

  • Projects where the beauty of the wood grain is the star — signage, trays, or display pieces that won’t take heavy abuse.

    
    

Polyurethane (Poly)

A protective film finish that sits on top of the material, available in satin, semi-gloss, or gloss.

• Pros:

  • Very durable, resists scratches and moisture

  • Long-lasting protection with minimal upkeep

  • Can create a glass-smooth surface

• Cons:

  • Takes longer to apply (multiple coats, dry times)

  • Can look plastic-y if applied too thick

• Best For:

  • High-traffic or high-touch projects — furniture parts, outdoor signs, and anything that needs to hold up over time.

    
    

Paint

The most transformative finish. Paint covers the material entirely and allows for custom colors, effects, or branding.

• Pros:

  • Unlimited color and style choices

  • Hides imperfections in the base material

  • Can unify mixed materials (e.g., wood + PLA prints)

• Cons:

  • Conceals wood grain

  • Requires prep (sanding, priming) for best results

  • Chips or scratches are more noticeable

• Best For:

  • Projects where branding or color matters more than the natura

  • l look of wood — logos, signs, architectural models needing contrast.

    
    

The Takeaway

Finishes aren’t just cosmetic — they’re part of the design.

• Use oil when you want natural beauty.

• Use poly when you need protection and longevity.

• Use paint when you want color, branding, or full control of appearance.

At BDR DSG LAB, we test finishes on offcuts before committing, making sure the final piece looks and performs exactly as intended.

👉 Not sure what finish fits your project? We’ll help you test options and choose the right balance of look, feel, and durability.