If you are working on a project in separate pieces, be sure to leave the stain on for the same amount of time to have a uniform finish. The longer the stain sits, the darker the result will be. Use a liberal amount, and brush against the grain to fill the deeper pores. When using wood with large, open pores, you can increase pressure to push the pigment into the surface. A high-quality bristle brush will hold the most stain and provide even flow when applied to the wood. You can use a variety of tools for application including bristle brushes, foam brushes, and cloth. Open pores evenly by sanding with a medium grit paper, and sand in the direction of the grain to avoid leaving any surface scratches. Applying stain to a finished wood surface will not change the color, and the stain will simply wipe off with a cloth. No matter what stain you choose, the wood will need to have open pores in order for the stain to penetrate. Darker stain equals darker and more noticeable blotches. If you have your heart set on maple, work with lighter shades of stain. It has very tight pores and an uneven grain pattern, which makes for a very blotchy result. Maple is another species that is not recommended for use with interior stains. To achieve this, use a pre-stain conditioner to ensure more even stain absorption. However, when stained properly, it can resemble more expensive woods like cherry or walnut. You can also use hickory, but it must be sanded with 100-grit sandpaper to open pores before you begin.īirch is a wood to avoid as it absorbs pigment unevenly, and the pigment it does absorb tends to become splotchy. It shares a similar grain pattern with oak, but it is lighter in color and a bit more versatile to work with. Try using a cool tone for a modern look.Īnother easy wood to work with is Ash. Oak is one of the best choices for interior staining as it has a strong grain pattern, and large pores. You want to choose a hardwood that is porous for optimal stain absorption. The other opacities – semi-transparent, semi-opaque, and opaque – are used more often for exterior projects, as they obscure the grain in a similar fashion as paint.Īll wood is not created equal when it comes to staining. Toner has a slight hint of pigment, but still leaves natural grain quite visible. Interior stains generally impart a transparent dye that won’t obscure the wood grain. The downside to water-based is that it raises the wood grain, so you will need to be vigilant about sanding after you stain and before you apply finish.
It dries much faster, allowing you to stain and finish in a single day, and requires only soap and water for cleanup. Water-based stain contains much less solvent and is lower in odor than oil-based. This type of stain is great for floors, cabinets, paneling, and doors. Oil-based stains take longer to dry which gives you more time to work with the product without worrying about dried lap marks. The type you use is dependent on your preference and the type of project you are completing. The most popular types of stain are oil-based and water-based. Ready to start staining? We have put together some tips and helpful information to make your project a success. Rainbow Paint & Decorating has all the supplies you need for a successful DIY wood staining project, and our staff is available to answer any questions you have.
You can stain a piece to match other woodwork in your home, or to stand out as a decorative accent.
Staining bare wood is a great way to add color and bring out the grain pattern.