How to Apply Stain

The word stain has a negative connotation in our society, but wood stain can add a tremendous ambiance to a home. Applying wood stain is an easy process that is well worth the time and effort. Stain can spruce up anything from cupboards to doors to baseboards.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wood stain
• Fine bristle paint brush
• Soft cloth or rag
• Sand sealer
• 200-grain (or higher) sandpaper
• Can of wood varnish
• Tack cloth

1. Use the fine bristle paint brush to apply wood stain to the surface to be stained. Wipe the stain down with the soft cloth or rag. For a lighter finish, wipe the stain down soon after application. For a darker finish, wait several minutes to wipe it down.

2. Clean the brush with paint thinner or other similar substance.

3. Apply the sand sealer over the coat of stain using the brush. After the sand sealer has dried, use the sand paper to sand down the surface and wipe the surface clear with the tack cloth.

4. Spread varnish on the stained surface with the brush. After the varnish dries, sand the surface with the sandpaper. Wipe the surface with a tack cloth and apply a second coat of varnish. Sand and wipe clean once again.

Tips & Warnings

• It is easiest to apply wood stain when you can lay the item flat on a raised surface such as a sawhorse. It is not recommended that you attempt to stain baseboards that are on the floor.
• Check stain, sand sealer and varnish cans for approximate drying times.
• For a high-quality professional finish, apply a coat of paste wax after the second coat of varnish has dried.