Wood stain is the color of red wine. Wood stain: what is it for? Types and methods of applying the composition. Wood stain wax

Stain - a coloring composition, usually soluble in water, used to color the surfaces of wood products. Another name for stains is stain.

The composition of stains is designed in such a way that during surface treatment, the substance does not impregnate the wood structure, but simply gives it a different color.

Stain finds a use for hiding natural color wood. Also to give surfaces a new look.

All stains according to the main material used for their manufacture are divided into 3 categories:

  1. Water-based wood stain

    The base of the stain is water. The product is produced in several varieties: ready-to-use, as well as in the form of a powder that must be dissolved in water. This variety is the most common and allows you to paint surfaces in any color shades, mostly shades of wood. The lack of stains on water based lies in the fact that when applied, the material raises the fibers of the tree. This fact emphasizes the structure of the tree, but at the same time, the expanded fibers perfectly absorb moisture. To avoid such a phenomenon, it is necessary to moisten the tree with water before applying the stain, keeping it in the water for some time. Next, the product is rubbed with abrasive material and the stain is applied as the last step. The advantage of water-based stains is that they do not have any odors, which does not harm human health;

  2. Alcohol based wood stain

    The main component of stain is alcohol. In this embodiment, the stain is a solution of the aniline dye in denatured alcohol. The described variety is produced in the same way as stain with a water base, in two versions - a ready-made product for use and in the form of a powder. The disadvantage of this type of stain is their rapid drying, which is the cause of stains. Application of such material by hand presents difficulties due to the uneven color of the resulting coating. Best result will observe when using spray guns;

  3. Oil-based wood stain

    The base of the stain is oil. This basis allows you to give the processed object any of the available color shades tree. This is made possible by mixing dyes that dissolve in oils. To prepare stains for use, they must be diluted with white spirit. This variety is not difficult to apply. The treated surface dries quickly, the coating is applied evenly, without swelling the wood fibers.

There are also stains based on acrylic and wax. These types are designed in such a way that they do not have the disadvantages that are described in the above listed varieties: wood fibers do not swell, do not leave stains, and the applied coating protects the wood from moisture. When water is spilled on surfaces treated with acrylic and wax stains, water droplets scatter.

Acrylic wood stain

Acrylic-based stains do not have specific odors, and are also fireproof. When applying them, it is necessary not to “sort out” with the thickness of the applied coating

Wood stain wax

Wax stains add brightness to surfaces, and are applied to the surface by bending or rubbing with a soft cloth, applying a little effort.

But besides the fact that these varieties protect surfaces, they themselves also need protective treatment. As protective coating wood stains are used for wood stains. Only stains based on acrylic and wax have different colors, perfectly highlighting the structure of the wooden surface. For this reason, both varieties are called rustic.

Self-made stains to a greater extent transform wooden surfaces. Looks good strong fat larch bark, carrying a red tint.

A variety of colors are obtained by decoction of finely chopped walnut shells. Next, baking soda is added to the solution through a fine sieve. A tree covered with a similar composition has a brown color. To give a reddish tint, after drying the surface, it can be treated with a solution of potassium bichromate.

Gray tones to wood treated with a solution of nutshell. Can be given by rubbing with a dilute solution of acetic acid.

Alder bark, or rather its decoction, gives the processed objects deep dark colors. Uniform shade Brown obtained by combining uniform amounts of oak bark, willow and shell walnuts. All components are filled with water and brought to a boil. The next step is to add 0.5 teaspoon baking soda and cook for another 10 minutes.

Coffee attaches to wood unusual color. Miscellaneous different shades brown are determined by the amount of coffee added. Coffee is brewed with soda and the solution is applied hot.

There is also a classification of stains according to their purpose: for surface treatment indoors, as well as for outdoor treatment. Stains for outdoor use contain a special substance that does not allow it to fade when exposed to ultraviolet rays.

When choosing a stain application tool, it is necessary to pay attention to the following factors:

  1. Depending on the size of the area of ​​the object to be treated, an ordinary brush, a swab made of foam rubber, as well as pneumatic sprayers can be used. There are no special indications for the use of the subject for application. But when using nitro-based stains, which tend to dry quickly, the use of brushes and tampons is accompanied by the appearance of stains, and therefore it is better to use sprayers, not paying attention to the area of ​​the treated surfaces. The remaining types of stains are applied using any tool, paying attention only to the surface area;
  2. To achieve a rich surface color, surface treatment should be carried out in several layers. The next layer in without fail should be applied after complete drying of the previous one. It is also necessary to dry completely before applying the top coat of stain or varnish.

Wood stain colors

Few people know the fact that one surface can be treated with stains. various colors. This method is used to emphasize the structure of the tree, as well as to give the effect of antiquity. The colors "white oak" and "arctic oak" are reproduced by mixing two types of stains.

First of all, wood bleach is used ( white color stain, the main component of which is water), then, after this layer has dried, all defects in the wood are filled with an oil-based stain containing hard wax. Wax, getting into these pores, clogs them and gives a gray or black tint, depending on the chosen color of the oil. Attention is attracted by the fact that the remaining bleached part has an unchanged color, even when treated with a thin protective film of wax or oil coating.

When connected various kinds and color stains of stains, it is possible to obtain unusual effects. The bottom line is that first of all, a general layer of the surface is applied, and then the final touches are already applied when applying stains of other colors. You can not do it in reverse order, since the processed wooden surface the oil can no longer absorb stain. Also, do not forget about finishing stage finishes - varnishing.

It is no secret to anyone that the number of layers of stain determines the final color of the tree. Choosing the right shade of color can be determined only after a test coloring.

First of all, the wooden "stub" must be sanded and cleaned. Next, the first layer of stain is applied. It is necessary to wait for it to dry completely, after which a second layer is applied, but not on the entire length of the board, but on a certain part of it. The third layer is also applied to a smaller part of the second layer. After the final drying of all layers of the stain, it is possible to determine the desired color processed coating.

It is necessary to pay attention to the fact that hardwoods absorb various formulations stain, and coniferous varieties, due to the presence of a considerable amount of resins, have the least absorbency.

related materials

Olympic MAXIMUM® Weather-Ready Unique Improved Wood Paint

Unique improved paint for tree Olympic MAXIMUM ® Weather-Ready is made to special technology, which provides perfect painting of wooden surfaces even in high humidity, which can be applied to the surface in almost any weather conditions, both in heat and cold, and even if the wood is wet. And all this is now possible in a shorter period of time. Thanks to the unique Olympic MAXIMUM ® Weather-Ready paint, painting a wooden surface will no longer depend on weather conditions and consumers do not have to wait for good weather to carry out painting work. This paint opens up more possibilities for you, and you can paint wooden flooring when it suits you, not when the weather permits.

Fashion on natural materials in construction, furniture production, interior decoration has already become a tradition. And it is wood that continues to be in trend due to its environmental and aesthetic properties. But, unlike artificial materials, wooden coverings and structures can deteriorate under the influence of adverse factors external environment such as moisture, direct sunlight.

Wood staining - great way emphasize the structure and beauty of wood and at the same time give the elements a unique shade. Wood stain, the color range of which is diverse, does not create an opaque film on the surface, unlike paints and varnishes.

It impregnates the wood and gives it a noble shade. In addition, impregnation protects the plane from the growth of microbes, moisture and fungus.

In contact with

The purpose of the stain

The main task of this material is to emphasize the beauty of the tree. Stain shades, obtained by the interaction of wood with a substance, are so diverse that any old thing play with new colors.

There are several types of wood stains with different bases, which determine the individual properties of the material.

Types of compositions

Stain is a material that can be divided into 2 types: for interior and exterior use. In the second case, manufacturers introduce special pigments into the material that do not allow it to fade in the sun.

The material is gel-like, powder or in the form of a ready-made solution. The composition of the impregnation is:

  • water,
  • acrylic,
  • oil,
  • alcohol,
  • wax,
  • chemical.

Each of these types has advantages and disadvantages that should be considered in detail.

Water based

This impregnation is the most popular and widespread material with a large colors. Water stains for wood are commercially available in the form finished composition or powder to be diluted with water.

Advantages:

  • non-toxicity;
  • a variety of colors (shades from light to deep dark);
  • ease of application and low consumption of material;
  • low cost.

But there is one significant disadvantage - it is impossible to protect the wood from moisture, as the material will lift the fibers. This drawback can be combated: after impregnation, the swollen fibers are treated with sandpaper, after which they are re-treated. If there is a desire to preserve the structure of wood, then after the first application of the stain, you can cover the surface with a colorless varnish.

Note! The long drying of the plane after applying the stain can be considered a minor drawback.

Based on acrylic resins

Modern innovative material- impregnations made on the basis of acrylic resins. These formulations are represented by an emulsion, which has several advantages:

  • ease of application,
  • good wood protection external influences and moisture
  • large range of colors
  • fade resistance,
  • little material consumption.

There is only one drawback of acrylic stain - the high cost.

Oil based

In the manufacture of these products, the pigment is dissolved in oil, while the shade of the material can be any. positive sides there is a lot of material:

Among the shortcomings can be identified long time desiccation and slight toxicity.

It should be noted that these impregnations are applied in a very thin layer.

alcohol based

The dye is aniline, it is dissolved in denatured alcohol. You can buy alcohol stain for wood in the form of a powder or solution.

The advantage of this material is its rapid drying. This is important for outdoor use, when the weather can change at any time.

In addition, the impregnation protects the wood from moisture and exposure to sunlight.

Cons of the material:

  • Specific pungent odour. At internal works ah need to provide good ventilation.
  • Fast absorption into wood. This will complicate the work, and stains may appear on the surface.
  • Application by spray gun, brush or roller. It is impossible to obtain a uniformly painted surface.

Wax based

Wax stain for wood was created recently, but many consumers have already appreciated its advantages. It is easy to apply, effectively protects against moisture and at the same time is an environmentally friendly product.

Based on the above, you can decide which stain better fit for wood, based on their requirements and preferences.

How to choose colors

How to choose stain color? by the most the best option is the application of the composition to small plot wood. It is worth noting that on different surface the color of the impregnation will look different. If a colorless wood stain is used, then the structure and color of the wood is preserved when receiving a protective layer.

If it is not possible to apply the material to a small area, then it is worth considering the following nuances:

  • The name of the tone. Typically, manufacturers write the color of the stain based on international classification, however, saturation and depth on various wood will be different.
  • Type of wood. Having absorbed the composition, the tree can become a completely unusual shade.
  • Mortar quality. It is worth remembering that the result of staining with materials from different manufacturers will not be the same. Give preference only to trusted manufacturers, well known in the market.
  • The density of the composition. If the material is liquid, then you will not get a rich and deep color during processing, since the impregnation will be strongly absorbed into the wood.

If you want to cover a large area with stain, then you should buy material from one manufacturer, otherwise you may not get the desired color. Wood stain treatment is the easiest way to update wood products. It depends on which manufacturer produces the composition, what stain colors are in the tint range.

Material application technology

Applying wood stain to the surface of wood usually does not cause difficulties, but the work requires accuracy and a competent approach. In order for the material to lay evenly and the consumption to be small, it is important to know the nuances of application.

Stain application options

There are several ways to apply stain:

  • Spraying. This is the most effective method. The material lays down evenly, while it turns out deep saturated color over the entire surface. Using a spray gun will help avoid smudges and unpainted areas.
  • Trituration. The composition is rubbed over porous wood with a rag. Thanks to this method of application, ordinary wood products acquire a noble oak shade. The composition must be rubbed very carefully, so the use of quick-drying stains should be excluded.
  • Application with a sponge or roller. The method is suitable for processing small surfaces. By covering the cut of wood with a sponge, you can get a great color and a protective screen.
  • Brush application. This is a common method, since the tool is easy to use, and the impregnation lies evenly. The master can highlight the natural wood ornament and show the pattern in a more advantageous way.

The method of applying stain depends on the type of material and the professional skills of the master. Often you can read about the method of application in the instructions for the material written on the label.

Application rules

It doesn't matter how many times the surface is covered. The main thing is to adhere to a certain technique and take into account the nuances:


  • Do not apply stain several times in one place, otherwise dark spots will be visible on the surface.
  • The raised wood fibers must be cleaned off with a coarse mesh (you should move along the fibers).

The drying time for alcohol solutions is a maximum of 3 hours, for oil solutions - 3 days.

Important! The rules for applying stain for oak are the same for both exterior and interior work. When using alcohol formulations, it is worth remembering safety measures, since the solution is very toxic.

Surface tinting - step by step instructions

Surface tinting is carried out in the following order:

  1. The wood is cleaned of the old coating, all uneven areas are cleaned with sandpaper.
  2. The stain prepared according to the instructions is poured into the bath.
  3. A small amount of the composition is drawn onto the tool and evenly distributed over the surface.
  4. The material is not applied immediately in a thick layer, since the stain consumption will be high, and the coating will be of poor quality.

Coating flaws and their elimination

Were there any defects when applying the impregnation? There are several tricks to eliminate them without repainting the surface.

Sagging on wood is easy to fix if you find it before the surface is completely dry. Apply a little impregnation and clean the area with a rag. If the impregnation has already dried, the streak can be removed with a planer or sandpaper.

No matter how evenly you apply the material, stains can form - the whole reason is in the wood, which absorbs the composition unevenly. In this case, the surface must be treated with a planer and coated with a gel impregnation that does not absorb into the wood and lays down evenly.

Useful video: how to choose wood stain

Now you know what wood stain is and what it is for. And using our recommendations, you can qualitatively process any wooden surface yourself.

Wood staining is an effective finishing method that allows you to emphasize its beauty and give the material the desired shade. Wood stains (stains), unlike paints, do not form an opaque layer on the surface of the wood, but penetrate into it (as if melted). In this way, nondescript furniture made from cheap wood species can be given a noble look.

What should you pay attention to when choosing a bait?

Selected - oak, ash, walnut, etc.) different firms may not look the same. Therefore, you should trust the visual impression, and not the inscription on the package.

It should be borne in mind that manufacturers, as a rule, provide color samples on boards of inexpensive wood (for example, pine), and in finished product from another material, the treated surface will look completely different. This is due to the fact that different types of wood have different density and structure. They also differ chemical composition elements. When applying the same stain, the mahogany will look more almost unchanged in color (this is very dense material), and poplar and oak will darken. At the same time, porous poplar will change color very quickly (it absorbs a lot of stain), and a distinct pattern of wood will appear on oak, because it has a pronounced structure.

In addition to the type of wood, the result will depend on the quality of the thing. Therefore, before processing, be sure to test the stain on invisible areas of all materials used.

Stained solid pieces of wood will look darker than plywood from the same type of wood. This must be taken into account in the production of combined furniture. Often this problem can be dealt with by applying additional layers of dye in certain places.

What are the types of beys?

Wood stains, like paints, are divided into two types depending on the purpose: for indoor and outdoor use. The latter include a pigment that does not fade under the influence of UV radiation.

On sale there are pasty (gels), powder stains and stains in the form ready solutions.

According to their composition, they can be: water, acrylic, alcohol, oil, chemical, wax.

Water stain for wood: advantages and disadvantages

In rooms, it is most often necessary to use a dye without a strong odor. In such cases, water-based stains are used. In addition, it is advisable to use these compositions when painting products with which contact is possible. food products or children.

Advantages of water stains:

Lack of smell;
- harmlessness to human health when working with them;
- savings (no need to purchase a solvent).

Disadvantages:

Relatively low staining intensity;
- long drying time (about 12-14 hours);
- lifting the pile on the wood after applying the stain. After the dye has dried, the surface must be sanded.

Acrylic stains: price differences

A modern variety of water stains is acrylic stains. They are emulsions made on the basis of these formulations have a wider color palette(compared to conventional water stains) and are more resistant to fading. The only drawback that acrylic wood stain has is the price. If a water-based stain in a 500 ml plastic bottle can be bought at a price of 12 rubles (about 50 rubles on average), then the minimum cost of an acrylic counterpart is 310 rubles. Water stain in a barrel of 200 liters costs 4800 rubles, and not water stain("Euro-bucket" with a volume of 20 liters) - 1710 rubles.

The nuances of applying stain

1. Material from coniferous wood, such as spruce or pine, must first be deresined, because the resinous layers absorb the dye poorly and almost do not change their color.

2. Before applying the water stain, it is recommended to moisten the surface, as wet wood absorbs the dye better.

3. Wood stains penetrate deep into the material along and across the fibers in different ways. Longitudinal application of the dye is more commonly used.

4. For tinting wood, spray guns, brushes, rollers, swabs made of fabric or foam rubber are used.

5. The dye tends to settle quickly. Therefore, when coloring large areas it is necessary to have in a separate container as much solution as is enough for the entire surface, while during operation the composition must be stirred frequently.

6. If a powder stain is used, it must be dissolved in soft water, preferably distilled (according to the instructions on the package). Hard water can be softened by boiling or adding 1 teaspoon of soda to 1-2 liters of liquid.

7. To obtain a darker color, use a solution with a higher concentration.

8. If coloring composition turned cloudy, it should be filtered with filter paper, cotton wool or thick cloth.

9. Before staining, the surface to be painted should be carefully sanded and cleaned: remove oil stains with gasoline or other solvent, traces - hot water, dust - brush or cloth.

10. You should avoid streaks, because then they are not easy to get rid of. The dried layer of stain on wood is very stable, and it can be completely removed from the wood only by cleaning the surface with a sandpaper.

11. When processing vertical planes, the coloring composition should be applied from the bottom up.

12. If the stain is heated before use, it will penetrate deeper into the wood.

13. To achieve the desired result, the stain can not only be directly applied to the surface, but also added to varnishes, primers and the like.

Staining when staining and how to avoid it

This problem is related to the uneven density of the tree. For certain types of wood (eg walnut and mahogany), mottling can be attractive. But in most cases, spontaneously formed stains spoil the product. This defect can be avoided by using a special conditioner, the layer of which will close the pores and prevent the stain from penetrating deep into the material. After processing the conditioner, you should use a coloring gel that has the ability not to spread, but to lay down in an even layer.

To obtain the desired shade of stain different color from the same manufacturer can be mixed with each other. In addition, the tone can be changed if another wood stain is applied to the painted wood, the price of which may differ from the cost of the stain used in the processing of the first layer. Thus, you can save on the purchase of a second expensive package of dye and expand the range of shades for wood tinting.

If, in your understanding, wood stain is nothing more than a type of paint, then you are very, very mistaken and you should become more deeply and specifically familiar with this substance and the methods of finishing with it. After all, this substance gives a second life to shabby furniture and unpresentable doors and window sills. Having a jar of stain on hand, you can change an old interior beyond recognition, without the obligatory replacement of windows and doors.

Wood stain, unlike the same paint, does not form an opaque layer on the surface, but penetrates into the wood, impregnates it, giving it the desired shade (from light walnut to dark “mahogany”). When visually evaluating wood stained, it seems that there was no staining process at all, that this is a natural color from nature.

Moreover, some types of stains have the ability to lift the fibers, outlining the structure of the tree.

Wood stains: distribution by groups

Beits (the second name of the substance) are divided into two types: for internal and external work and are divided into groups, according to their chemical composition.

Water-based - the most common water-based impregnation for wood and can stain wood in any color. The shades used are exclusively woody, so “any” color means light and dark browns. A significant disadvantage is that water stain for wood helps to lift the fibers and exposes them to moisture. To limit the access of moist air or water inside the treated wood, do this: moisten the surface of the wooden product with water, soak for some time, sand it, and only after these manipulations cover it with stain.

Alcohol dyes are aniline dyes dissolved in denatured alcohol. Manufacturers produce this type of stain ready-to-use or in powder form. Their main disadvantage is that they dry too quickly. On the one hand, it’s hard to call this a disadvantage when, after an hour and a half after treatment, you can already fearlessly touch the surface, but, on the other hand, “lightning-fast” drying provokes the appearance of spots on the surface that look like splashes of grease or dirt.

Oil stains are the most convenient to use, since they can be applied with any tool, from a brush to a spray gun, they lie flat, do not lift wood fibers, and the range of colors of this type of stain is richer and more saturated than the others.

Acrylic and wax are new developments in tinting material, made taking into account all the shortcomings of previous generations of stains. The latest wood stains give the wooden surface any color and do not force it to change its structure under its influence, and also serve as its reliable protection. Try dropping a little water on the treated object: the stain will repel it so powerfully that the liquid will scatter into mini-droplets, but none of them can seep inside.

Another characteristic feature of the new type of wood stains is that they give the tree any shade, including uncharacteristic and exotic ones, while emphasizing the structure of the material (that is, wood). Try to imagine your updated kitchen cabinet in transparent blue with a typical wood pattern. Original, right?

The only thing that an economical consumer may not like is an acrylic analogue of water-based stain - its price. If you can buy a water stain for 50 rubles, then for acrylic, if you please, lay out all 300. Of course, both the drying time and the quality of processing of the first cannot be compared with new developments, but it's only your choice - either cheap or convenient.

How to stain wood

A beautiful door, closet, floor depend on the quality of not only the wood, but also the stain with which it is processed. It is very noticeable to the eye what type of impregnating liquid was used: rich deep pleasant color, evenness of the stroke - all these are signs of both good material and the professionalism of the master.

Wood stains, wood colors of any type or other shades give an excellent effect only when applied correctly. To make the locker look not only decent, but also stylish, you need to learn a few simple nuances of woodworking.

  1. When processing material from coniferous species, the tree must first be deresined, otherwise there will be no sense in staining - the resin will not let the tinting liquid into the wood.
  2. Apply the dye along the wood fibers, as the result of processing is completely different with longitudinal and transverse penetration.
  3. The tools for applying the stain are used based on the area of ​​the material being processed: small pieces of furniture or doors are stained with brushes, foam sponges, fabric swabs, but if the treatment area is extensive, it is advisable to use sprayers.
  4. Dissolve powdered water stain only in soft water (distilled or boiled with soda).
  5. Before processing, the wooden surface should be degreased, cleaned of dust and dirt.
  6. It is necessary to work very carefully: color wood stain can give smudges, which are very difficult to get rid of and which can significantly spoil the appearance of the painted object.
  7. The main secret of stain: if it is heated before use, it will penetrate deeper into the structure of the tree, and provide more reliable protection.
  8. Stains can be added to varnishes and primers, the protective effect of the substance will work in the same way as when applied directly to the surface.

Colored stains as a means of design change

Not so long ago, aged wooden things came into fashion: grandmother's chests, kitchen cabinets made back in the 60s of the last century, "antediluvian" chairs and stools.

If you are working with wood and need to give it specific color then you definitely need a stain. To date, there are several types of stain, which differ in composition. You can find the following in stores types of stains:

  • water;
  • alcohol;
  • oil;
  • nitro stains.

Consider each type of stain in more detail.

1. water stain- this is the most common type. It gives the opportunity to paint wood in any tone: from the lightest "pine" color to dark mahogany. Available in liquid and dry form. Liquid water stain can be used immediately, but the dry powder must first be mixed with warm water.

This type of wood stain is almost odorless, which is a big advantage if wood staining takes place indoors. But it dries for quite a long time - within 12-14 hours. In addition, water stain is able to lift the pile of wood during staining, and this leads to the fact that wood after staining needs to be sanded.

Of all water stains, acrylic stains are separately distinguished, which, based on acrylic resin. They are more resistant to fading, do not wash out with water and lift wood fibers much less. However, they have one drawback - a high price.

2. Alcohol stain is a solution of various aniline dyes in alcohol (denatured alcohol). After applying the stain, the colorants penetrate into the texture of the wood, and the alcohol evaporates. This type of stain dries quickly enough - in 15-20 minutes. That is why it must be applied very quickly to prevent stains and washouts. Uniform staining with alcohol stain is achieved by using an airbrush to spray it.

3. Nitromordant- stain made on the basis of solvents. According to the principle of action, it is similar to alcohol stain. It is applied quickly and with a sprayer.

4. Oil stain- a mixture of dyes and oil (most often linseed). This type of stain is applied easily and evenly. Oil stain does not pick up fibres. The colorants of the oil stain have a high lightfastness, which allows the surface to long years keep its brightness and original view. Oil stain can be applied with a spray gun, a wide brush or rags. Oil stain dries in 2-4 hours.

Choice of stain color.

Each color of the stain has its own code, which corresponds to the international classification, and a name that matches the type of wood, the color of which is copied by the stain. For example, stain "Chestnut", " Walnut" or "Cherry". But it is very short-sighted to choose a stain only by the name or picture on the label, as an unexpected result may turn out. There are special reasons for this:

1. If stains of the same color and cipher were made by different manufacturers, they can have different shades. For example, the water stain "Larch" by the manufacturer "Tsaritsyno paints" has a pinkish-brown tint, and the "Larch" produced by "Novbytchim" has a pale yellow color. In various stores there are samples that have been painted with different stains. Such samples will convey the color of the stain much more accurately than the picture on the label.

2. The natural color, structure and density of wood can also affect the result. staining with stain. For example, stain on mahogany will look much darker than on maple (if the stain used was the same tone). This is due to the fact that mahogany wood has more dark shade than maple wood.

The same test with pine and maple samples will demonstrate that pine wood stains faster and more intensely. Pine has a softer and more porous wood, while maple is denser and harder. For this reason, it is easier for dyes to penetrate pine wood.

The texture of the wood also affects the degree of staining. Oak has a pronounced structure, so it quickly darkens with stain, as the coloring substances penetrate into the recesses of the veins. But the main part of the oak wood, which is outside the veins, is painted more slowly and not so brightly.

Mortar application methods.

To paint wood stain, you can use an airbrush (nozzle size 1.5 mm or less), a wide brush (width 100 mm), a foam swab or rags. For processing large area better to use a spray gun. It is also used when working with nitrimorils and alcohol stains, as they dry very quickly, and when using brushes or swabs, stains appear on the surface of the wood.

Brushes, swabs and rags are great for working with water and oil stains. Brushes with natural bristles are suitable for oil stains, and with synthetic bristles - for water stains. The bristles of the brush should be strong and should not leave behind hairs on the surface of the wood.

If fabrics or tampons are used to work with the stain, then they should be cotton or foam rubber. They should not leave behind pile and threads that can remain on the painted surface and, thereby, reduce the quality of the coating.

Preparing for applying the stain: making a color sample.

After stain purchases, but before the start of the staining itself, it would be useful to make a color test. Its need is that it will help to understand whether this stain is suitable for the surface. In addition, the test will allow you to find out what color will turn out in the end, and will help determine the number of layers of application.

To make a color test, you will need a board treated in the same way as the wood that is to be painted. Undoubtedly, the wood species of the sample must match the main surface.

The plank is covered with one layer of stain. After drying, a second layer is applied to 2/3 of the sample. The third layer is applied to 1/3 of the plank. After the stain has dried, the plank is varnished in two layers. Comparing the brightness of the coloring of each part of the sample board, the optimal number of layers for a particular surface is chosen.

In order to choose the best option, you need to do a few test stains. Several boards are painted with different stains and then the final choice is made.

Wood treatment before staining.

Before applying the stain, the wood must be prepared. There are several processing steps:

1. First you need to remove the old coating, if any. This is done by scraping and sanding the boards. This process will not only remove the old coating, but also level the wooden surface.

2. Clean the surface from grease and oil stains. To do this, wipe the problem areas with a rag that has been dipped in white spirit or gasoline.

3. conifers wood must be deresined before staining with stain. It is necessary to remove resin from the wood structure, which may interfere with stain absorbency. There are several types of solutions for deresining:

Dissolve 50 g of potassium carbonate and 60 g of soda ash in 1 liter of water heated to 60 degrees.

In 1 l warm water dissolve 50 g of caustic soda. Treat the surface with the resulting soda solution.

Mix 750 ml of distilled water with 250 g of acetone.

Any of these solutions must be applied to the surface of the wood in several layers. After 30 minutes, wipe the wood with a cotton cloth and rinse with warm water.

Stages of staining a wooden surface with wood stain.

If the wooden surface is properly prepared for staining, then the procedure for applying the stain will be quite simple. It is carried out in the following steps:

1. First, the stain needs to be slightly warmed up to increase its degree of penetration into the wood.

2. A brush, rag or swab is moistened in the stain. In no case do not allow strong moisture, as streaks may appear and the coloring will become uneven. If a sprayer is used, then the stain is poured into the tank.

3. The stain is applied along the wood fibers. It is necessary to apply the stain quickly and without interruption to avoid staining. If streaks appear, then the surface must be wiped with a cloth, collecting excess liquid along the fibers. Then the surface is left until the stain is completely dry.

4. Similarly, several more layers of stain are applied in order to obtain the desired shade (usually 2-3 layers).

5. Then surface, stained, varnished in several layers. Each intermediate layer is sanded with fine-grained sanding paper.