Guide to Choosing the Right Wood Stain for Your Refinishing Project

The best stain should fit in color, finish, and compatibility.

Refinishing gives wood surfaces like cabinets a second chance to shine and a longer life. Still, not every stain is equal, so don’t pick the first product that catches the eye. The best stain should fit in color, finish, and compatibility.

Here are some tips for selecting the right wood stain:

Wood type

Different woods react differently to each stain. For example, when pine absorbs a stain, it’s uneven, but oak takes stains more gracefully. Know the type of wood to predict how it might behave when stained.

Pick the stain type

Oil stains are traditional. They penetrate deeply and make the colors look rich. But keep in mind that they take longer to dry.

Water-based stains dry quickly and are eco-friendlier than other types. They’re also easier to clean up. They don’t penetrate as deeply but are excellent for light touch-ups with various colors.

Gel stains are thick, gooey, and perfect for vertical surfaces or woods that might blotch. With a uniform color, these stains are easy to control.

Also, some stains and finishes are more durable than others. As such, they will be better suited to surfaces with plenty of interaction.

Color matters

Wood stain swatches can be deceiving, so test them out and don’t rely on guesswork. Try the stain out on a small, inconspicuous part of the wood or a scrap piece of the same wood. This way, it will be clear exactly what it’ll look like when applied to a larger surface.

Also, the stain color should match the look of the room. Dark stains are warm and rich, while light stains make the area larger and airier.

Finishing touches

A stain might look great on its own, but it might look even better with a top coat. A top coat makes the stain more durable and gives it a nice sheen. Pick either matte, satin, or glossy finishes, whichever looks best and complements the décor most.

If the wood is outside or exposed to the sun for long periods, a stain with UV protection might be best to prevent fading.

Application tips

The stain doesn’t merely go on top of unprepared wood. The stain won’t adhere directly to a dirty surface. First, sand the wood down smoothly and remove any dust.

Pick between brushes and rags. Brushes work well for detailed areas, but rags offer more control over how much stain to apply. Experiment and see which one works better.

Stain matters

Stains make wood surfaces more colorful and beautiful, but not every stain suits each type. Pick wisely, and talk to a woodworking professional, such as a cabinet refinishing expert, for the best advice.

The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.