It’s no secret that staining wood trim can be a challenge. The wrong stain or application can ruin your hard work if the process is not going well. But, with knowledge and innovative techniques, you can easily stain wood trim like a pro.
What Is Wood Staining?
Wood staining is the process of adding color to wood. It can work for both functional and aesthetic purposes. For example, you may stain a piece of furniture to protect it from water damage or sunlight. Or, you may want to add color to an otherwise bland-looking piece of wood.
There are two different types of wood trim staining: penetrating and surface. Penetrating stains seep into the wood grain, while surface stains sit on top of the wood.
Penetrating stains are typically more durable than surface stains, but they can be harder to apply evenly. The entire length of surface stains is easy to coat, but they don’t last as long and may require more frequent reapplication.
Materials Needed To Stain Wood
For staining wood, you need a few supplies. These include
Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner
The type of wood stain you use will determine whether or not you need to use a pre-stain wood conditioner. This product helps to even out the absorption of the stain, resulting in a more even finish.
If you’re using a penetrating stain, you’ll need to apply a pre-stain wood conditioner before staining the wood. If you’re using a surface stain, you may or may not need to use a pre-stain wood conditioner.
Stain
There are many different types of wood stains available on the market. You can select from the category like water-based, oil-based, gel, and spray. Water-base stains are the easiest to work with, while gel stains are the most difficult. Testing a few stains on a scrap piece of wood is always a good idea, especially if you’re new to staining wood. It will help you determine which strain works best for your project.
Grit Sandpaper
You’ll need sandpaper to prep the wood before staining. Use coarse-grit sandpaper (60-80 grit) to remove any roughness from the surface of the wood. Then, use fine-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) to smooth the wood.
Tack Cloth
A tack cloth is a piece of fabric that can be treated with a sticky substance. This substance helps to pick up any dust or debris that’s on the surface of the wood.
Stain Applicator
You can use different applicators to apply the stain to the wood. These include a brush, rag, sponge, or sprayer. It depends on the type of stain and your personal preference as to which applicator you use.
Lint-Free Cloth
After you’ve applied the stain, you’ll need to wipe off any excess with a lint-free cloth. Let’s see if the finish is smooth and even.
Drop Cloth
Place a drop cloth beneath the area where you’re working to protect the floor or furniture from spills. It prevents any stains from getting on surfaces that you don’t want to be stained.
Mineral Spirits
If you’re using an oil-based stain, you’ll need to have mineral spirits on hand to clean up any spills. Use mineral spirits to remove the stain marks from your hands s that you can use any applicators.
Wood Sealer
After the stain has had time to dry, you’ll need to apply a wood sealer. It helps to protect the stained wood from water damage, sunlight, and other elements. Use polishes, varnishes, lacquers, or shellacs as your wood sealer.
Power Sander (Optional)
If you’re working with a large piece of wood, or if the wood is very rough, you may want to use a power sander. A power sander will make quick work of sanding down the wood, and it’ll save you from having to do it by hand.
Types Of Stains For Wood
When it comes to staining wood, there are many different options available. The type of stain you use will depend on the look you’re going for and the project you are working on.
Water-Based Stain
Water-based stains are the easiest to work with and clean up. They’re also less likely to cause an allergic reaction. However, they don’t last as long as oil-based stains. The pigments in water-based stains can also fade over time. It is odorless while wet but has a strong smell when it dries.
Oil-Based Stain
Oil-based stains are harder to work with and clean up. They’re also more likely to cause an allergic reaction. However, they’re more durable than water-based stains and won’t fade easily. Oil-based stains also penetrate the wood better, resulting in a richer color. It has a strong smell both while wet and when it dries.
Staining Wood Trim Process
The process of staining wood trim is relatively simple. However, there are a few steps that you need to keep in mind to get the best results.
Sand The Wood Trim
The first step is to sand the wood trim. You’ll want to use coarse-grit sandpaper to remove any roughness from the surface of the wood. Then, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out the wood.
By sanding dust the wood trim, you’re creating an entire surface for the stain to adhere to extra fine dust. It will help to ensure that the wood trim is smooth and even with a sanding pad.
Stir Stain
Once you’ve sanded the wood trim, you’re ready to apply the top coat of stain. But before you do, stir and stick the stain well. Check the pigments if they are evenly distributed or not.
If you’re using an oil-based stain, you may also need to thin it out with mineral spirits. It will help to stain goes on smoothly. Don’t shake the can, as this will cause bubbles to form in the stain.
Apply Stain On Trim
When ready to apply the stain, you can use a brush, clean rag, sponge, or sprayer. It all depends on staining wood and trimming the stain. When applying the stain, paint thinner in small sections for a light coat. Ensure that the stairs n applied evenly with h applicator. Use the foam brush with water-based stain to cut in around the trim. It will help to avoid any stain brush strokes in the final product.
Wipe Off Dripping Stain
After you’ve applied the stain, you’ll need to wipe off any excess stain. The wood absorbs the stain well before applying a second coat. Oil-based stain takes some time to penetrate the wood, so don’t remove all of it. Wipe off any drips or runs as you go. While the water-based stain is still wet, you can use a rag to remove any excess.
Apply Sealer
After the stain has had time to dry, you’ll need to apply a wood sealer. It helps to protect the stained wood from water damage, sunlight, and other elements. Use polishes, varnishes, lacquers, or shellacs as your wood sealer. Buffing with a clean cloth once the polyurethane sealer has dried. It will help to create a smooth, even surface.
Clean Up Properly
Once you have finished staining and sealing the wood trim, you’re ready to clean up. If you’re using an oil-based stain, you’ll need to use mineral spirits to clean up your brushes and other equipment. Water-based stains can clean up with soap and water. Be sure to dispose of all rags and brushes properly.
Final Thoughts
Staining wood trim is a simple process that can transform the look of your home. You can get a creative look with the help of experts who know how to stain the wood properly. With time and effort, you can have beautiful stained wood trim that will last for years.
