farnish

Farnish is a term that appears in some dialects and historical texts to refer to a protective coating applied to wood, metal, or other surfaces. In modern standard English, the preferred term is varnish or finish. Farnish is not widely used in contemporary technical literature, and its precise meaning can vary by region or era. When encountered, it generally denotes a film-forming coating that protects and enhances appearance.

The word’s origins are unclear; some dictionaries note it as a variant spelling of varnish or as a regional term. It may appear in older trade catalogs or manuals, sometimes alongside or instead of varnish.

Farnish coatings are typically based on resins dissolved or dispersed in a carrier such as solvent or water. Common resin systems include alkyd, acrylic, polyurethane, shellac, and oil-based varnishes. The carrier dries or cures to form a hard, protective film. Finish selection depends on aesthetics, durability, flexibility, and compatibility with the substrate. Farnish finishes may be tuned for gloss, satin, or matte appearances and for resistance to moisture, heat, and abrasion.

Application and maintenance involve surface preparation, such as cleaning and sanding, followed by applying thin coats through brushing, wiping, or spraying. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next; light sanding between coats improves adhesion. The number of coats depends on the desired buildup and environmental conditions. Proper ventilation and protective equipment are recommended due to solvent or chemical vapors, and finished surfaces require curing time before use.

See also varnish, wood finishing, surface coating.