Drum Rehab Part 3: Which finish to use on drums?

In Part 3 of our Drum Rehab project we tackle choosing the finish for your drum shells. Whether you’re an amateur drum refinisher, a DIY hobbyist, or just starting your journey in drum customization, I hope this guide will help you understand the options available and pick the best finish to bring your vision to life. We explore the different sheens of polyurethane starting with Gloss, Semi-Gloss and Matte and ultimately (after a trip to HD) Satin. This coupled with the right stain covered in Part 2 are critical to getting the flat back look I’m going for when I do the 1982 Pearl Maple Shells from the contemporary kit I picked up. Perfect for beginners, this video simplifies the decision-making process with practical tips, product recommendations, and techniques for testing stains on sample wood. Whether you’re restoring vintage drums or creating a unique custom look, this guide has you covered. Don’t forget to subscribe for more drum restoration tutorials, from removing drum wraps and prepping shells to refinishing techniques. Transform your drum set into a masterpiece—one stain at a time! #DrumRestoration #DrumStaining #DIYDrumRefinishing #DrumCustomization