How to Stain With a Paintbrush

Staining wood furniture gives it a new look and life. Applied correctly, it brings out the grain of the wood and adds an air of elegance to your project. Using a paintbrush to apply stain makes the process even easier. Make staining a piece of furniture your next weekend DIY project

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Sand sealer
• Sandpaper
• Stain
• Fine bristle paintbrush
• Soft cloth
• Paint thinner

1. Decide on the color for your furniture and whether to use oil-based or water-based stain. Oil-based stain often provides a richer color but with more clean-up required. Water-based stain makes for an easier cleanup.
2. Prepare the item for staining. If possible, rest it on two sawhorses for easiest access. Strip off the old stain and sand the wood. After wiping off sawdust, consider applying a sanding sealer, particularly when using water-based stain.
3. Turned an unopened can of stain upside down and shake it well. After turning it back over, open the can with a screwdriver. Stir the stain again for an even color.
4. Apply stain with a fine-bristle paintbrush; work the stain in by following the grain of the wood.
5. Work quickly, overlapping with the paintbrush. If stain dries before you're finished, you can end up with an uneven color or blotchy areas.
6. Use a soft cloth to wipe the stained object after application. Wait longer if you want a darker color. Fix any unevenly stained areas.
7. Allow furniture to dry for the length of time in the instructions, probably 1 to 2 hours. Clean your paintbrush with paint thinner.

Tips & Warnings

• Stain items in a well-ventilated room.
• Continue to stir stain periodically to keep the color even.
• Many experienced refinishers follow the staining process with sanding and one or two coats of varnish.
• Stain is much more difficult to remove than paint. Protect yourself by wearing old clothes. Protect your work area with overlapping drop cloths or tarps.

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