Because of maples density and working properties, it does not take stain well at all. It can however be dyed with great results. Saw this on a post..
I have some birds-eye maple.. Alot of it.. I am making something for a Lady friend,, Has to be NICE..
I am making something that will use Bloodwood and this Maple.. All of it is about 3/8 inch thick.. (Not sure it matters)..
Bloodwood no problem but the contrasting Birdseye.. Some white and dark wood grain in there.. REALLY pretty.. to me at least.. What color dye to use first?
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WillGeorge, go to Homestead Finishings site and look at the birdeye sample with dye on them. You lucky dog, they make it easy to choose. aloha, mike
http://www.homesteadfinishing.com
Well, you saw that post from me. Asfar as color, you need to ask am I contrasting or complementing with the maple? If a contrast is needed finishing plain would be the solution, but if you are wanting to have a similar tone to the maple than that is the place to start. In the June 2003 FWW there is an article for coloring bird's eye maple. It deals with natural, medium tone and an antique look. Essentially you use either water or alchohol based dye usually in the honey amber to cherry amber range, which I use often. Also in the April 1999 FWW Jeff Jewitt describes the process for dyeing and topcoating figured maple for the greatest results in intensity and clarity. If you read these two you will be all set.
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