I just finished two bedside tables made of maple solids and plywood. I’m just starting to research the challenges with staining maple. From what I gathered I want to use a dye based stain to avoid better absorbtion. Any recommendation on products?
My main question is with the pre conditioning. I’ve read something about a shelac undercoat to help with the even application of water based dye. I’ve also heard that a 5-1 water to sandable stainable glue brushed on can do the trick. Really I’m just looking for a fool proof way to finish this job. Any recommendations on products and techniques? The units are maybe slightly too big to use spray lacquers from a can but if its easier and will give me a professtional look then I can go that route. I could use spray can clear lacquer for my top coat. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.
Replies
Color
A dye based stain will provide better absorption not less than another stain. If you pre-condition you most likely will need a dye stain over the conditioner.
Your finishing process all depends on the color you're trying to get to. Without professional products it's difficult to pre-condition and still get to the color you're after. It's best to try different techniques on similar woods to get a base line for what color you're after
Do a test on similar wood with and without conditioner - than stain and see where you're at - post some photos and it will be easier for follks here to help you -
SA
Using dye based color rather than regular stains
I am no expert with dyes but Peter Gedrys seems to be and he wrote an informative article in the Jan-Feb 2011 issue all about dyes. Dyes are expensive and hard to control. Correct use will only come with practice (testing).
Maple is generally so hard, that it is difficult to add any form of color, other than dye. That is the primary reason that I generally chose another wood, unless the "hardness" is required.
Finewoodworking has written on this subject several times, you might want to look up those articles, first. Although I have been woodworking for about 55 years, I still rely on those who make their living gathering the information we need and writing about it in an informative, non-dictitorial way. Good Luck.
AND, no I have no relationship with FineWoodworking, other than as a subscriber who appreciates their publication.
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