How to Compare Wood Dye & Stain

Blank wood matching the wood project being stained is the best medium on which to test stains and dyes.

Comparing wood dye or stain is a simple operation requiring little beyond some scrap wood of the same type to be stained and various stains and dyes. Stain applies pigment to the surface of the wood and is chemically bound to the surface upon drying. Dye soaks into the wood and changes the natural color. Dyes typically produce "more transparent and natural looking results," according to Rockler.com. Stains typically come in cans like paint; wood dye typically comes in a concentrated form that requires dilution.

Things You'll Need

• Small containers
• Wood stains
• Wood dyes
• Several pieces of scrap wood or one large piece of wood of the same type as that being used in your project
• Stain brush
• Several clean cloths

Instructions

Compare Stains and Dyes

1. Mix dye concentrates with water in separate containers. Use mixture levels according to individual dye manufacturer instructions.

2. Apply one test color of dye or stain to scrap wood. Allow the color to soak in for the time recommended by the individual manufacturer's instructions.

3. Wipe excess liquid away with a clean cloth.

4. Repeat steps two and three until all stain and dye test colors are applied.

5. Allow all colors to dry completely.

6. Compare colors and select desired option for wood coloring project.

Tips & Warnings

• Save scraps when building a wood project for stain and dye comparisons.

• Comparing stains and dyes on wood that is not the same as the object being stained will likely result in different end result colors.

References

• Wood Stain in a Nutshell