How To

How to Stain a Door

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(30 Ratings)

It's easiest to stain a door when you can lay it flat. Here's how it's done.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Brushes
  • Wood Stain
  • Gloves
  • Gloves
  • Gloves
  • Clean Rags
  • Clean Rags
  • Shallow Dishes
  • Doors
  • 2 Sawhorses
  1. Step 1

    Set the door up on sawhorses or any other waist-high flat surface.

  2. Step 2

    Remove any hardware that's installed on the door.

  3. Step 3

    Use a brush and a rag for stain application.

  4. Step 4

    Shake the stain in the can and then pour some into a shallow dish so you can keep it handy without having to dip your brush into the can.

  5. Step 5

    Focus on one end of the door at a time.

  6. Step 6

    Apply stain first to the sunken parts of a paneled door, using a paintbrush to put down a smooth, even layer.

  7. Step 7

    Put a layer of stain on the strip between the panels, then across the end section (top or bottom of the door).

  8. Step 8

    Stain the areas along the sides and work from the center of the door outward.

  9. Step 9

    Repeat the steps for the other end of the door.

  10. Step 10

    Do the moldings inside the panels last, wiping the stain on with a clean rag and matching it to the rest of the door.

  11. Step 11

    Apply a second coat after the first has dried.

Tips & Warnings
  • Always apply stain with the grain.
  • Wear gloves to prevent stains on your hands.
  • Work in a well-ventilated area.

Comments  

rosehill1 said

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on 10/30/2009 I've been advised to stir, not shake. Also, you can use an old rag to apply stain if you want and then wipe it with another rag. 2 coats usually aren't necessary. Just follow with a couple of coats of polyurethane.

junior007 said

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on 9/18/2008 your information was very helpful

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