How to tell the difference between oil-blend, semi-transparent, and transparent finishes? How to choose?

Going to choose furniture, only to pull out the color chart and be completely clueless about the various processes involved?

The three major finishes for furniture panels—oil-blend, semi-transparent, and transparent—let's learn the differences. Choosing the right finish will ensure you enjoy your craft without any stress!

1. Oil-blend (Opaque Paint)
Features:
The paint film completely covers the substrate, is opaque, and the color can be customized.

Completely hides the texture and imperfections of the substrate, resulting in a smooth, even, solid color.
Suitable for: Low-quality artificial boards or low-grade solid wood.
Style requirements: Modern minimalist, Nordic, or colorful furniture, such as cabinets and children's room furniture.
Key process:
Multiple spray coats are required, and the base coat must completely seal the substrate.

2. Semi-transparent (Translucent Paint)
Features:
The paint film contains a small amount of pigment. After a thin coat, the substrate's base color and texture appear faintly, but more hazy than transparent. This paint softens the base material's texture and is often used for artistic effects like distressing or grime (e.g., a taupe semi-transparent finish).
Suitable for: Ordinary solid wood or veneer surfaces with textured base materials that require modification.
Style Requirements: Vintage, Industrial, or Wabi-Sabi-style furniture.
Key Technique:
Color matching requires precision. A thick film can create a mixed oil effect, while a thin film can create a completely transparent effect.

3. Transparent (Varnish/Clear Oil)
Features:
A completely transparent film that fully preserves the base material's natural texture and color, emphasizing a natural feel.
Available in glossy or matte finishes, it is commonly found on high-end solid wood furniture.
Suitable for: High-quality, flawless natural solid wood base materials.
Style Requirements: Chinese, Japanese, or log-style furniture.
Key Technique:
The base material must be finely polished; imperfections will be readily apparent.

Choice Recommendations:
Choose Mixed Oil:
If the base material is artificial board, you want a solid color with a strong modern look, or you need to conceal base material imperfections. Choose semi-transparent:
The base material is ordinary solid wood or veneer, and you want to soften the grain and create a vintage/aged effect.
Choose fully transparent:
The base material is high-quality solid wood, and you prefer the natural wood grain and environmental friendliness.