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What Is Wood Staining?
What Is Wood Staining?
Wood staining involves applying a coat of stain to a freshly sanded wood surface to transform the color of the wood or emphasize the wood grain. The process of sanding and staining a piece of wood is known as refinishing. When you refinish a wood surface, you first strip the wood of any pre-existing stain or varnish, then apply a new coat of stain followed by a wood finish such as polyurethane. You don't need to be an expert in woodworking to refinish a piece of wood furniture or trim, but it is important to prepare the wood properly before staining.
Wood staining involves applying a coat of stain to a freshly sanded wood surface to transform the color of the wood or emphasize the wood grain. The process of sanding and staining a piece of wood is known as refinishing. When you refinish a wood surface, you first strip the wood of any pre-existing stain or varnish, then apply a new coat of stain followed by a wood finish such as polyurethane. You don't need to be an expert in woodworking to refinish a piece of wood furniture or trim, but it is important to prepare the wood properly before staining.
Process of wood staining
Process of wood staining
Start by sanding your unfinished wood with 120-grit sandpaper, being sure to sand in the direction of the grain. This medium-grit sandpaper will open up the pores of the wood. Repeat the process again with 180-grit sandpaper and then one more time with 220-grit sandpaper until the top of the wood is smooth to the touch. Vacuum and wipe off dust with your tack cloth.
Using a paint stick, stir your can of stain to fully mix in any pigments that may have settled at the bottom. Some stains should only be stirred, not shaken.
Apply oil-based stains with a paintbrush or clean rag. Apply water-based stains with a foam brush or synthetic bristle brush. For deep grain woods, work the stain into the grain by working in a circular motion. Otherwise, apply the stain evenly in the direction of the wood grain.
Allow oil-based stains to penetrate the wood for five to fifteen minutes. Allowing the stain to sit for the maximum amount of time will result in a darker color. Water-based stain dries fast and should be wiped off within two minutes of application.
Let water-based stains dry for two to three hours and oil-based stains for four to six hours before applying a polyurethane sealer. The best way to get a smooth finish is to apply the first coat of sealer, let it dry, and then lightly sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper before applying a second coat.
Water-based stains should wash out of rags and drop cloths with warm water and soap. Oil-based stains will need to be cleaned up using mineral spirits. Dispose of rags soaked in oil-based stain according to the instructions on the stain can.
(Applying a topcoat sealer is not required, but a finish protects the stained wood from scratches and keeps it from fading over time. If applying a polyurethane wood finish with a brush, apply one to two coats)
Oil-Based Stain vs. Water-Based Stain
Oil-Based Stain vs. Water-Based Stain
There are several options when it comes to selecting a stain for your wood project. The most common types of stain are oil-based and water-based stains. Both types come in a variety of stain colors and finishes. Choosing which type of stain to use for your staining project depends largely on the type of wood you're refinishing and your desired color.
Water-based stain: If you're using softwood—such as pine or cedar—and don't care to see the wood grain, a water-based stain is a great choice. Water-based stains come in a wide array of pigments—even non-traditional colors like pinks and blues. They are also fast-drying, have a low odor, and are easy to clean.
Oil-based stain: If you're refinishing a hardwood—such as oak or maple—an oil-based stain is ideal. Oil-based stains bring out the intricacies of the wood grain and are the more common choice among professional woodworkers. They do have a longer dry time, a strong odor, require mode sanding, and are slightly more difficult to clean up. With proper ventilation, the right tools, and a little elbow grease, oil-based stains can yield an impressive result.
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