How to Stain Wood: A Step-by-Step Guide to Staining Wood

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.

Consider all the tools you'll need to complete your wood staining project.

1. 1. Pre-stain wood conditioner: Woods that are soft or porous—such as pine or cherry—require a thin coat of pre-stain wood conditioner before staining to avoid blotchiness.
2. 2. Stain: With a variety of stain options at your disposal, take some time to choose your favorite stain type and color, thinking about how the finished stain will complement the rest of your home. Consider testing a few stains on a scrap piece of wood first. If you're staining pine, consider using a gel stain to avoid blotches caused by uneven absorption.
3. 3. Sandpaper: You'll need 120, 180, and 220-grit sandpaper to complete the job.
4. 4. Tack-cloth: A tack-cloth is a sticky cloth used for wiping away dust between sanding and staining.
5. 5. Stain applicator: Depending on which stain type you're using, you'll need either a natural bristle paintbrush, foam brush, or a clean rag to apply your stain. Read the instructions on your can of stain to choose the right applicator for the job.
   
6. 6. Lint-free cloth: Use a lint-free, clean cloth for wiping away excess stain.
7. 7. Drop cloth: Place a drop cloth under your staining project to protect the floor from drips and oil stains.
8. 8. Mineral spirits: Use mineral spirits to clean oil-based stains out of brushes.
9. 9. Wood sealer (optional): You don't have to seal your wood project, but a wood sealer will help protect it from scratches and wear. Consider finishing the project with a top coat of polyurethane.
10. 10. Power sander (optional): Depending on the size of the job, you may choose to use a power sander. Small pieces of furniture or trim can be sanded by hand or with a sanding pad.

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.
  

Follow this step-by-step guide to staining wood.

1. 1. Sand the wood. 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. Wipe off dust with your tack cloth.
2. 2. Stir your stain. 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. Be sure to read the instructions on the can carefully.
3. 3. Apply the stain. 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.
4. 4. Wipe off excess stain. 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.
5. 5. Let the wood dry before applying a sealer. 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.
6. 6. Clean up. 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.

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