Learn the basics of woodworking with these tips to stain wood and how to properly prepare wood for finishing.
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When I first started woodworking and building furniture I quickly learned the importance of properly staining and the value in a good finish. The first few projects I did are sometimes hard for me to look at too closely because I see the novice in my technique through the stain. I was overapplying stain, in addition to not taking enough time to properly sand or prep the wood for stain.
The last thing you want is to spend the whole weekend building a table or bookshelf and then having the stain look blotchy and inconsistent. With these tips, you’re going to elevate the finishes of your work and elevate your project game!
Tools & Materials
- Sander/ Sanding Block
- 180 Grit Sandpaper
- 220 Grit Sandpaper
- Wood Conditioner
- Shop Towels
- Paint Brush
- Disposable Rubber Gloves
- Wood Stain
- Polyurethane
Steps:
1. Sand Thoroughly
You’ll want to make sure to sand your piece before applying any conditioner or stain. With any project that you do for home interior, you’re going to want to sand it down with 180 grit sandpaper. You’ll notice that the wood lightens as you sand it, which will let it better take whichever color stain you decide. After your first round of sanding, wipe the wood with a damp cloth. This will raise the wood grain and allow for a smoother finish after your second round of sanding.
2. Condition Wood
After sanding, wipe down the piece so that there is no dust on it. Use a shop towel and apply wood conditioner in the same direction as the wood grain.
3. Stain Wood
Grab another shop towel and dampen it with water. Dip it into your wood stain and rub it into your piece in the direction of the wood grain. Then, use a dry shop towel and wipe off any excess stain. If you want a darker stain application, let the stain dry completely before applying a second coat.
Remember that anything that’s tinted enough to literally stain wood, has the potential to stain your clothes and hands. So don’t wear anything too special when staining, and be sure to wear gloves. If you do end up with stain on your hands, with some dish soap, warm water, and patience it’ll come out.
4. Apply Top Coat
To seal and protect your piece, you might want to use a sealant like polyurethane. Using a paintbrush, apply the poly in the direction of the wood grain. Once it is completely dry, lightly sand with a 220 grit sandpaper.
Once I started following all of these steps, the quality of my pieces improved so much. Staining wood helps to enhance the wood and show off the wood grains, and with these tips you’ll love the finished look of all your projects.
Hopefully these tips help you on your next project. After your next wood staining project, be sure to tag or DM me on Instagram or Pinterest @MelanatedMakerDIY
If you want behind the scenes footage of this or any of the other projects, check out my Instagram @MelanatedMakerDIY