The kind of wood stain you require will depend on the type of wood you use and the object itself. Applying stain is a fun and simple way to give old wooden items new life and style. Keep old pieces out of the dump boost family heirlooms to last for many years. Determine what type of stain you require for your particular job. Explore all of the different colours and finishes to modify your results.



Wood Stains

Stains function as colored sealants that are applied to the wood to seal it and offer protection. This item is much lighter than paint. It was designed to soak into the wood fiber and saturate it with pigment. The chemical reaction with solvent brings about the binding process. Once the stain cures or dries, the colour connects to the wood. There are many distinct types of wood stains. For kitchen stools and tables, opt for interior wood stains. You need to understand the various applications for wood stain initiatives. Depending on the solvent base, the types of stains vary.

Oil-Based Stains

Interior oil-based stain is often what springs to mind when people hear “wood stain.” They are easy to find and simple to apply. Understand that oil-based products are produced from noxious chemicals and care needs to be taken when using. Be sure to invest in a respirator mask to put on since oil-based products feature many harsh chemicals.

These stains generally consist of a linseed oil binder to enable plenty of cleanup time for excess before it dries. Oil-based stains can be applied with a rag, or a cloth, or a brush.

This particular stain is frequently used to revitalize wooden furniture items. It is much easier to attain a uniform finish thanks to the slower drying time this item delivers. Oil stains saturate deeper compared to water-based stains. It provides a warmer colour that can become more potent with additional coats.

Durable and lasting, oil stains are immune to peeling and deliver great surface adhesion. Not needing to remove other finishes before is another bonus of using oil stains. Basically thin the first finish layer with the use of mineral spirits.

Water-Based Stains

Water-based interior stains dry fast and are super easy to clean up. Water is definitely the binding solution in this formula. These items can be cleaned up with water and thinned out. These stains are better for the environment when compared with oil-based products. Resistant to mold and mildew, water-based stains are fantastic for many applications. Their rapid drying time makes them great for small projects. These are easy to apply with a brush or a rag. These stains don’t penetrate the wood nearly as much as oil-based stains. It is possible to achieve a darker shade with increased coats or opt for a gentle color. Apply to raw wood when possible which has no wood finish.

Varnish

Varnish is used generally for only a finish or top coat. These products are available as shellac, polyurethane, or lacquer. Your varnish may possibly consist of polyurethane, lacquer, or shellac. Varnish produces a hard, transparent finish ideal for sealing wood. It serves as the final protective layer to complete your project by sealing in your stain. Varnishes offer minimal colour. Varnishes incorporate a thinner or solvent mixed with resin and drying oil. This stain is a bit thicker in comparison to oil-based stains. These products take roughly four to six hours to dry completely. Varnish can add new life to your next interior wood build. It offers more moisture protection in comparison to lacquer.

Gel-Based Stains

The gel stain products are halfway in between paint and stain products. They let some of the wood’s distinctive markings and textures come through. Gel stains likewise require mineral spirits for cleaning just like oil-based items. Gel stains demand less preparation compared to traditional stain or paint. These items are thick and messy; however, they are easy to use. For the greatest application, count on a cloth or a rag. Gel stains certainly are a wise choice for wood that is susceptible to blotchy finishes such as pine and is a good choice for staining pine flooring and pine furniture pieces. Blotchiness occurs when different wood has a variety of resin densities located throughout it.



Lacquer

Lacquer provides a strong finish with an intense shine. It is a topcoat that generates a protective barrier. When your staining is completed, lacquer will be the last thing you apply to seal the deal. It cures promptly and is frequently applied with a spray gun. It is a common finish for interior woodworking, trim, carpentry, moldings, display cases and more. Lacquer is not a item for outdoor items.

Food-Grade Finishes

If you're resurfacing a kitchen table, island, or bar counter top, make sure you use products that are considered food-grade safe. The labels on your oil-based and water-based items will help you determine if the product is considered food-grade safe. Consider using placemats or some tablecloth or other creative means if you happen to accidentally choose a non-food-grade safe remedy.