How to Stain Maple Plywood
Plywood can be tricky to stain, not only for its construction from thin layers of wood, but also because of its uneven surface tones. Over-sanding or using the wrong kind of stain can result in a blotchy disaster. Maple plywood in particular has a tendency to look blotchy when stained, so it is crucial to use the right stain, tools and technique to produce a great-looking finish. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Maple plywood
- 100-grit sandpaper
- 200-grit sandpaper
- Gel stain
- Clean rags
- Polyurethane sealant
- Two sponge brushes
- Utility knife
- Respirator
Instructions
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1
Sand the surface of the maple plywood lightly with 100-grit sandpaper.
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2
Sand the surface of the maple plywood lightly with 200-grit sandpaper. Be careful to smooth the surface without sanding through to the next layer of wood.
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3
Put on a respirator.
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4
Apply a gel stain to the surface of the maple plywood with a sponge brush.
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5
Wipe away any excess gel stain with a clean rag.
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6
Apply a second coat to the maple plywood for a darker shine. Allow to dry completely, according to manufacturer instructions, before continuing.
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7
Sand the surface of the stained maple plywood with 200-grit sandpaper. Sand just lightly enough to allow the sealant to adhere to the surface.
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8
Wipe away any excess sanding dust with a clean rag.
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9
Apply a coat of polyurethane sealant to the maple plywood with a sponge brush. Paint from one end of the surface of the maple plywood, working your way to the other end in even strokes. Allow the sealant to dry fully, according to manufacturer instructions, before continuing.
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10
Cut off any small, uneven spots in the polyurethane sealant with a utility knife. The sealant can form drips, pools, and bubbles which should be shaved off to create an even surface. Cut off the uneven spots horizontally with the utility knife.
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Sand the first coat of polyurethane sealant with 200-grit sandpaper.
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12
Wipe away any excess sanding dust with a clean rag.
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13
Apply a second coat of polyurethane sealant to the surface of the maple plywood with a sponge brush.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Work in a well-ventilated area when working with wood stain and sealant. Use a respirator with working seals and fresh filters.
