I recently used Gramercy Tools’ new finishing brushes to apply shellac, varnish, and nitrocellulose lacquer. The results were outstanding.

The delicate ox-hair bristles are densely bunched and lay on an even coat of finish with every stroke. They’re bedded in epoxy and tied to the unfinished wood handle with a stainless-steel ferrule.

Finishing brushes work great. Gramercy Tools now offers ox-hair-bristle brushes that finish beautifully.

Like all good tools, they aren’t cheap but they’ll last for years with proper care. The 1-in., 2-in., and 3-in. sizes sell for $20, $35, and $55 each. To order, go to www.toolsforworkingwood.com.

From Fine Woodworking #194

Photos: Tom Begnal

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Tite-Mark Marking Gauge

These gauges can be easily and precisely adjusted with one hand, which allows you to set the tool while holding a ruler or workpiece in the other. The quality is exceptional, and all have sharp cutters that offer great visibility.

Buy at Lie-Nielsen Toolworks

3M Blue Tape

One of the most versatile accessories to have in the shop: from layout to seaming veneer. It has enough stretch to pull joints together.

Buy at Amazon

Sawstop Miter Gauge

It has a toothed angle-setting rack that is extremely solid, accurate, and easy to use, and it offers all of the features I love in a miter gauge, including the ability to add an auxiliary wood fence, and a flip-stop that will accommodate it.

Buy at Amazon