David Smith

About this instructor

David Smith, president of Fresh Air Finishers, has been finishing wood professionally for the past 30 years. A few of his wood finishing specialties include onsite executive office touch-up and refinishing; historic interior woodwork restoration; and custom finishing for artists, designers, architects, and fixture manufacturers. David has traveled from coast to coast repairing complex wood finishing problems. Color theory, spot repair, distressed finishes and water-based coatings are just a few of the topics he has taught at companies who have sought to learn more about wood finishing. He has been a visiting instructor at the National Institute of Wood Finishing, AWFS and IWF. Photography, bicycling, and looking for old growth woods are a few activities that keep him busy.   

Click on a Class for a Detailed Description

Mastering Shellac & Water Based Finishes

with David Smith May 5-9, 2025

Hands-On Finishing

with Mitch Kohanek & David Smith October 20-24, 2025

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