Staining

[trplbogie]

Probably on the forum somewhere, just can't find it. How do you keep the cut ends of the boards from staining darker then the other edges.

Thanks

[spalted]

A pre-stain conditioner works very well, Minwax and other make it.

It's a clear thin product you can apply before your stain. It also works pretty well to prevent pine from getting that blotchy look.

Thin shellac wash coats works too depending on what your using and the look you are trying to achieve.

I would recommend you try the pre-stain conditioner though, it's simple to use.

[trplbogie]

I do use the pre stain conditioner especially on pine. trying to double up on the ends on single coat the rest.

Thanks

[AskBud]

Doing "Test Stains" on scrap, is well worth the time.
AskBud

[spalted]

I do use the pre stain conditioner especially on pine. trying to double up on the ends on single coat the rest.

Thanks

If the pre-stain conditioner is not cutting it, try some shellac thinned down with alcohol, or some zinnser sanding sealer thinned down. Do it on a scrap first, because I'm not sure of the results. Remember, this is only a theory .......unless it works.

[jgowrie]

I find that if you let the MINWAX conditioner dry overnight you will notice a bigger difference. The difference being less stain will be absorbed. I know the can says coat within 2 hours but that is not really the truth. There is an excellent book which you can get at your library titled "Understanding Wood Finishing" by Bob Flexner. You could coat the ends the night before and if you are staining a wood like pine, condition the faces and edges according the the instructions on the can.

Biggest thing is test this out before you dive into a finished project

[trplbogie]

thanks...look for more ideas

[locovalley]

You may already know this, but it helps to sand end grain through the full range of grits, ending with 400 grit. The smoother the surface the better staining results. I work with a lot of white oak (because I cut my own lumber) and get good results. I seldome use conditioners and still get a nice stain finish.

Joe

[gwizpro]

We use Sherwin Williams BAC wiping stain. Try it, You will be pleasantly surprised at the results. Continuous color without the problems of other stains.....We use it everyday for our product which demands a constant color shade on all edges and surfaces.