This past Saturday, November 22nd, we welcomed an enthusiastic group of makers, woodworkers, and curious creators to our Finishing Seminar at the Vinogradofff Wood Shop in Barrie. The morning was packed with learning, demonstrations, and practical insights into achieving flawless results with two of the industry’s most trusted finishes: OSMO and Rubio Monocoat.

A Deep Dive into Professional Wood Finishing

The seminar followed a show-and-tell style format, where attendees were able to see each step of the finishing process up close. We walked through the correct stages of surface preparation, compared the nuances between OSMO and Rubio, and demonstrated proper application techniques for each product.

Participants also had the opportunity to see real-world finish samples, which helped highlight the visual differences, sheen levels, and colour effects that these finishes can create. Many guests mentioned how helpful it was to watch the process unfold in real time — especially those subtle details that are easy to miss when learning online.

Tips, Tricks & Common Mistakes to Avoid

One of the most valuable parts of the seminar was our deep dive into finishing mistakes and how to prevent them. From ensuring proper sanding sequences to controlling product amounts and working times, our goal was to take the guesswork out of finishing.

Attendees walked away with a clearer understanding of:

• When to choose OSMO vs. Rubio

• How much product to apply (and when less is more!)

• How to achieve a smooth, even coat

• What to do before and after application

• How to confidently approach their next woodworking project

Our Q&A session wrapped things up, giving everyone the chance to ask specific questions about their projects, challenges, and future builds.

Community, Creativity & Inspiration

What truly made the morning special was the energy in the room. Seeing so many passionate makers gather to learn together reminds us why we love offering these seminars. Whether you’re a professional woodworker, a hobbyist, or just someone exploring the world of finishing, the shared curiosity and conversation bring our community to life.

We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who attended and helped make this seminar a success. Your engagement, questions, and willingness to learn are what keep events like this growing.

More Workshops Coming Soon

If you missed this seminar — don’t worry! We’re already planning more workshops, including advanced finishing sessions, epoxy fundamentals, and more.

Stay connected with us on social and keep an eye on our website for upcoming dates. We can’t wait to see you at the next one!