How to Stain a Door

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

2. Remove any hardware that's installed on the door.

3. Use a brush and a rag for stain application.

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. Focus on one end of the door at a time.

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

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

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

9. Repeat the steps for the other end of the door.

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. 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.

[rosehill1]

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]

on 9/18/2008 your information was very helpful