Do-it-yourself pine wood stain. Wood stain - what is it and how to do it yourself

Wood staining is a great way to bring out the structure and beauty of wood while giving the elements a unique touch. Wood stain, the color range of which is diverse, does not create an opaque film on the surface, unlike paints and varnishes.

It impregnates the wood and gives it a noble shade. In addition, impregnation protects the plane from the growth of microbes, moisture and fungus.

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The purpose of the stain

The main task of this material is to emphasize the beauty of the tree. Stain shades, obtained by the interaction of wood with a substance, are so diverse that any old thing play with new colors.

There are several types of wood stains with different bases, which determine the individual properties of the material.

Types of compositions

Stain is a material that can be divided into 2 types: for interior and exterior use. In the second case, manufacturers introduce special pigments into the material that do not allow it to fade in the sun.

The material is gel-like, powder or in the form of a ready-made solution. The composition of the impregnation is:

water,
acrylic,
oil,
alcohol,
wax,
chemical.

Each of these types has advantages and disadvantages that should be considered in detail.

Water based

This impregnation is the most popular and widespread material with a large colors. Water stains for wood are commercially available in the form of a ready-made composition or powder, which must be diluted with water.

Advantages:

non-toxicity;
a variety of colors (shades from light to deep dark);
ease of application and low consumption of material;
low cost.

But there is one significant disadvantage - it is impossible to protect the wood from moisture, as the material will lift the fibers. This drawback can be combated: after impregnation, the swollen fibers are treated with sandpaper, after which they are re-treated. If there is a desire to preserve the structure of wood, then after the first application of the stain, you can cover the surface with a colorless varnish.

Note! The long drying of the plane after applying the stain can be considered a minor drawback.

Based on acrylic resins

Modern innovative material- impregnations made on the basis of acrylic resins. These formulations are represented by an emulsion, which has several advantages:

ease of application,
good protection of wood from external influences and moisture,
large range of colors
fade resistance,
little material consumption.

There is only one drawback of acrylic stain - the high cost.

Oil based

In the manufacture of these products, the pigment is dissolved in oil, while the shade of the material can be any. There are a lot of positive aspects of the material:

Among the shortcomings can be identified long time desiccation and slight toxicity.

It should be noted that these impregnations are applied in a very thin layer.

alcohol based

The dye is aniline, it is dissolved in denatured alcohol. You can buy alcohol stain for wood in the form of a powder or solution.

The advantage of this material is its rapid drying. This is important for outdoor use, when the weather can change at any time.

In addition, the impregnation protects the wood from moisture and exposure to sunlight.

Cons of the material:

Specific pungent odour. At internal works ah need to provide good ventilation.
Fast absorption into wood. This will complicate the work, and stains may appear on the surface.
Application by spray gun, brush or roller. It is impossible to obtain a uniformly painted surface.

Wax based

Wax stain for wood was created recently, but many consumers have already appreciated its advantages. It is easy to apply, effectively protects against moisture and at the same time is an environmentally friendly product.

Based on the above, you can decide which stain better fit for wood, based on their requirements and preferences.

How to choose colors

How to choose stain color? by the most the best option is the application of the composition to small plot wood. It is worth noting that on different surface the color of the impregnation will look different. If a colorless wood stain is used, then the structure and color of the wood is preserved when receiving a protective layer.

If it is not possible to apply the material to a small area, then it is worth considering the following nuances:

The name of the tone. Usually manufacturers write the color of the stain based on the international classification, however, the saturation and depth on different woods will be different.
Type of wood. Having absorbed the composition, the tree can become a completely unusual shade.
Mortar quality. It is worth remembering that the result of staining with materials from different manufacturers will not be the same. Give preference only to trusted manufacturers, well known in the market.
The density of the composition. If the material is liquid, then you will not get a rich and deep color during processing, since the impregnation will be strongly absorbed into the wood.

If you want to cover a large area with stain, then you should buy material from one manufacturer, otherwise you may not get the desired color. Wood stain treatment is the easiest way to update wood products. It depends on which manufacturer produces the composition, what stain colors are in the tint range.

Material application technology

Applying wood stain to the surface of wood usually does not cause difficulties, but the work requires accuracy and a competent approach. In order for the material to lay evenly and the consumption to be small, it is important to know the nuances of application.

Stain application options

There are several ways to apply stain:

Spraying. This is the most effective method. The material lays down evenly, while it turns out deep saturated color over the entire surface. Using a spray gun will help avoid smudges and unpainted areas.
Trituration. The composition is rubbed over porous wood with a rag. Thanks to this method of application, ordinary wood products acquire a noble oak shade. The composition must be rubbed very carefully, so the use of quick-drying stains should be excluded.
Application with a sponge or roller. The method is suitable for processing small surfaces. By covering the cut of wood with a sponge, you can get a great color and a protective screen.
Brush application. This is a common method, since the tool is easy to use, and the impregnation lies evenly. The master can highlight the natural wood ornament and show the pattern in a more advantageous way.

The method of applying stain depends on the type of material and the professional skills of the master. Often you can read about the method of application in the instructions for the material written on the label.

Application rules

It doesn't matter how many times the surface is covered. The main thing is to adhere to a certain technique and take into account the nuances:

Do not apply stain several times in one place, otherwise dark spots will be visible on the surface.
The raised wood fibers must be cleaned off with a coarse mesh (you should move along the fibers).

Drying time alcohol solutions is a maximum of 3 hours, oil - 3 days.

Important! The rules for applying stain for oak are the same for both exterior and interior work. When using alcohol formulations, it is worth remembering safety measures, since the solution is very toxic.

Surface tinting - step by step instructions

Surface tinting is carried out in the following order:

The wood is cleaned of the old coating, all uneven areas are cleaned with sandpaper.
The stain prepared according to the instructions is poured into the bath.
A small amount of the composition is drawn onto the tool and evenly distributed over the surface.
The material is not applied immediately in a thick layer, since the stain consumption will be high, and the coating will be of poor quality.

Coating flaws and their elimination

Were there any defects when applying the impregnation? There are several tricks to eliminate them without repainting the surface.

Sagging on wood is easy to fix if you find it before the surface is completely dry. Apply a little impregnation and clean the area with a rag. If the impregnation has already dried, the streak can be removed with a planer or sandpaper.

No matter how evenly you apply the material, stains can form - the whole reason is in the wood, which absorbs the composition unevenly. In this case, the surface must be treated with a planer and coated with a gel impregnation that does not absorb into the wood and lays down evenly.

Useful video: how to choose wood stain

Now you know what wood stain is and what it is for. And using our recommendations, you can qualitatively process any wooden surface yourself.

If, in your understanding, wood stain is nothing more than a type of paint, then you are very, very mistaken and you should become more deeply and specifically familiar with this substance and the methods of finishing with it. After all, this substance gives a second life to shabby furniture and unpresentable doors and window sills. Having a jar of stain on hand, you can change an old interior beyond recognition, without the obligatory replacement of windows and doors.

Wood stain, unlike the same paint, does not form an opaque layer on the surface, but penetrates into the wood, impregnates it, giving it the desired shade (from light walnut to dark “mahogany”). When visually evaluating wood stained, it seems that there was no staining process at all, that this is a natural color from nature.

Moreover, some types of stains have the ability to lift the fibers, outlining the structure of the tree.

Wood stains: distribution by groups

Beits (the second name of the substance) are divided into two types: for internal and external work and are divided into groups, according to their chemical composition.

Water-based - the most common water-based impregnation for wood and can stain wood in any color. The shades used are exclusively woody, so “any” color means light and dark browns. A significant disadvantage is that water stain for wood helps to lift the fibers and exposes them to moisture. To limit the access of moist air or water inside the treated wood, do this: moisten the surface of the wooden product with water, soak for some time, sand it, and only after these manipulations cover it with stain.

Alcohol dyes are aniline dyes dissolved in denatured alcohol. Manufacturers produce this type of stain ready-to-use or in powder form. Their main disadvantage is that they dry too quickly. On the one hand, it’s hard to call this a disadvantage when, after an hour and a half after treatment, you can already fearlessly touch the surface, but, on the other hand, “lightning-fast” drying provokes the appearance of spots on the surface that look like splashes of grease or dirt.

Oil stains are the most convenient to use, since they can be applied with any tool, from a brush to a spray gun, they lie flat, do not lift wood fibers, and the range of colors of this type of stain is richer and more saturated than the others.

Acrylic and wax are new developments in tinting material, made taking into account all the shortcomings of previous generations of stains. The latest wood stains give the wooden surface any color and do not force it to change its structure under its influence, and also serve as its reliable protection. Try dropping a little water on the treated object: the stain will repel it so powerfully that the liquid will scatter into mini-droplets, but none of them can seep inside.

Another characteristic feature of the new type of stains is that they give the tree any shade, including uncharacteristic and exotic ones, while emphasizing the structure of the material (that is, wood). Try to imagine your updated kitchen cabinet in transparent blue with a typical wood pattern. Original, right?

The only thing that an economical consumer may not like is an acrylic analogue of water-based stain - its price. If you can buy a water stain for 50 rubles, then for acrylic, if you please, lay out all 300. Of course, both the drying time and the quality of processing of the first cannot be compared with new developments, but it's only your choice - either cheap or convenient.

How to stain wood

A beautiful door, closet, floor depend on the quality of not only the wood, but also the stain with which it is processed. It is very noticeable to the eye what type of impregnating liquid was used: rich deep pleasant color, evenness of the stroke - all these are signs of both good material and the professionalism of the master.

Wood stains, wood colors of any type or other shades give an excellent effect only when applied correctly. To make the locker look not only decent, but also stylish, you need to learn a few simple nuances of woodworking.

Colored stains as a means of design change

Not so long ago, aged wooden things came into fashion: grandmother's chests, kitchen cabinets made back in the 60s of the last century, "antediluvian" chairs and stools.

Using in home interior wood, you wonder how long it will last. The answer depends on whether you know how to choose stains and varnishes for interior woodwork. It is worth considering further use: for furniture, choose non-toxic compounds, for the floor - resistant to abrasion.

We select the mixture according to the type of surface and its further application

Each surface has its own characteristics and risks of damage. To protect the tree and preserve its beauty, you need to carefully choose the composition of the mixture covering it.

The coating may have the following properties:

toxicity - the safest ones are made on the basis of water, wax and oils. Nitro-varnishes and polyurethane are applied in a respirator;
drying speed - alcohol-based formulations dry the fastest (almost instantly). Slightly inferior to them are varnishes and stains on the water and nitro-varnishes (about three hours). Oil solutions dry the longest (at least a day);
the ability to prime small irregularities and porous wood - they are conditionally divided into ready-made self-priming compounds, nitro-varnishes with a large dry residue and varnishes with the addition of a filler;
wear resistance - polyurethane varnish is the most resistant to any damage, but if used carelessly, it tightly glues the planks. The most unstable nitrocellulose;
resistance to fire - ready-made fire-resistant varnishes. Fire resistance directly depends on the thickness of the layer;
lack of smell - there is no fuse in acrylic varnishes and stains on water based. The smell of epoxy and oil compounds disappears up to three days.

They differ in the type of application:

brush - viscous compositions based on oil, resins and wax are applied;
spray gun - a mixture based on alcohol and water.

We select stain for interior work with wood

The first thing that interests any person is what visual effect the stain will give, and they are repelled from it, choosing the composition.

Choice by visual effect

Wood staining with wood stain is used not only as decorative coating, sometimes toning hides the mistakes of previous experiments or helps to achieve a uniform color for a porous wood product. For tinting, powder stains are used, mixing them with a solution in which the pigment is added.

If you are an adherent of ancient technologies, use organic dyes, they retain color for centuries. Their color scheme is more meager, but if you have a recipe, you can create the same shade after decades.

Using herbal ingredients, you can achieve the following shades:

red - a decoction of larch bark or onion peel;
brown - nutshell powder with the addition of soda. If you need a rich color, mix willow and oak bark, alder catkins and walnut shell, on this composition, cook the tincture with the addition of soda;
gray - after applying stain with nut decoction, soak the surface with vinegar;
black - with the addition of a decoction of oak or alder bark;
yellow - mix a decoction of barberry root with alum and boil;
scarlet - a composition of wolfberry juice and Glauber's salt;
blue - juice of wolfberries with the addition of soda;
green - potash with wolfberry juice.

Powder stain is diluted with a decoction and applied as when diluted with water.

Colorless stain to enhance the natural beauty of wood

This category includes all types of stains, without additives. True, they shade the color of the boards a little. This is due to the type of wood - on dense wood, the natural color will remain, and on the porous structure it will become several tones darker.

Rustic stain for vintage look

There are two ways to get this effect. Buying a ready-made composition with increased seepage into deep layers or applying ordinary stain to a sanded surface, followed by removing it in convex areas. To enhance the contrast, you need to walk along the wood fibers with a metal brush, then the softer areas will become deeper and darker.

Compositions for multi-colored application

They are used to obtain the color "Arctic oak", "bleached oak" and other options with bleaching. For work, they acquire a water-based stain with white pigment, oil stain and wax. The first layer is applied for bleaching, and the second with a stain mixture with the addition of melted wax. The excess is removed with a rag. The oil soaks into the veins, emphasizing the wood structure.

Not all solvents are universal, some are not suitable for a nursery, but they are indispensable when processing parquet. Before purchasing the composition, decide where it will be used.

Which breeding ground is right for you:

alcohol - resistant to ultraviolet, does not require additional protection with varnish;
oil - ideal for beginners without a special tool, environmentally friendly and resistant to abrasion;
wax - not suitable for further coating with polyurethane and two-component acid curing varnish;
nitro - applied with a spray gun due to capriciousness and frequent stains;
water - requires grinding after application due to the lifting of the fibers.

It is better to purchase several types than to spoil the product in pursuit of savings.

Protecting wood with varnish

The stain is not able to protect the wood from contact with other objects, therefore, after it has completely dried, it is recommended to varnish the product.

Desired end result:

glossy - looks good in rooms with poor lighting, giving the surface depth. In a room with bright light, it creates a mirror shine that hides the beauty of the tree;
matte - saves natural look;
mother-of-pearl - during the play of light, internal flicker appears;
tinted - with the addition of pigment to change the shade.

When applying mother-of-pearl and tinted varnish, do not forget that the color saturation depends on the number of layers.

Varnish types

Like stain, varnishes have different bases, some of them emit toxic substances during operation and require long airing.

They are divided into the following types:

alcohol - most often used for small items by restorers or when processing musical instruments;
water-soluble - odorless and not afraid detergents, suitable for children's furniture;
oil - used to cover the floor, shade the wood with yellow;
alkyd - glyphthalic and pentaphthalic synthetic resin is used as a base;
polyester - suitable for items with frequent use, form protective film. Withstand not only washing, but also the ingress of reagents;
epoxy - the same resistant as polyester, but with a faster drying rate;
polyurethane - one of the most resistant, most often cover parquet in public places and yachts;
acrylic - used for processing children's toys and furniture, the safest for health.

When mixing, pay attention to the fact that the stain and varnish components do not conflict, but it is better to apply them separately. The varnish prevents the stain from penetrating into the wood, so such experiments end up with ugly dark stains and spots on the surface.

Wood stain is a unique composition for wood processing. Many mistakenly believe that with the help of a stain you can give the material. But in fact, wood stain, which impresses with its diversity, allows you to complement any interior with saturation and unique appearance.

Composition characteristics

With the help of modern stains, you can easily imitate breeds various wood. On the construction market presented for selection different shades. But not only in creating a perfect appearance, stain is used. The tool is an indispensable antiseptic, thanks to which the product from natural wood lasts much longer. The composition reliably protects against decay, microorganisms, fungi and insects.

Wood stains exist different types:

Water. It is in great demand due to its composition. Available from a specialized store ready solution or a powder that simply mixes with water during operation. The color palette of water stain impresses with its variety. It can be easily selected according to individual desires in accordance with the interior. The advantages of the material for processing wooden surfaces are environmental friendliness and safety for people, environment, ease of application, cost-effectiveness, reasonable cost and many shades.

The disadvantages of this type of composition is the interaction with the structure of the tree, which opens the way for the penetration of moisture, and a long drying period. This unnecessary phenomenon can be eliminated by treating the surface with a special varnish. Water stain on wood can be used on.

Alcoholic, which is applied using spray guns. When working with a brush, it is almost impossible to achieve an even application - this is its main disadvantage. In addition, alcohol stain is not made in a variety of colors and dries quickly when applied.
oily. This is a material that is produced in a different color palette. Almost any pigment can be dissolved in an oil base. It does not affect the wood, it is simply applied and lays down evenly, dries quickly.
wax acrylic which can be purchased in any color. The composition evenly falls on the wooden surface, is a first-class protector of the material, perfectly highlights the structure of the tree. Such a stain is used if necessary.

But it is worth remembering that no matter what type of composition is used, after completing staining procedures it is necessary to process the product with a special varnish. It will help to give the work a finished look, become a reliable fixative of the substance and allow it to delight for many years with its impeccable appearance. With the help of a unique composition, you can create a natural pattern, emphasize the dignity of wood.

Rules for choosing stain color

by the most the best way determining the color is, of course, applying stain to a small board. The fact is that on different woods the composition manifests itself in its own way.

If this is not possible, then when choosing, experts recommend being guided by:

tone name. It is worth remembering that the manufacturer is obliged to indicate the color in accordance with the international classification, but nevertheless, on different wood, the tone will have a different look, saturation and depth;
type of wood which will be processed. After dyeing, natural material can acquire completely new shades, absorb the composition - this is worth remembering;

composition quality. Identical stains different manufacturers may look different natural material. Therefore, do not give preference to dubious companies offering a low cost of the substance;
composition density. With a low density of the composition, the stain is very absorbed into the tree, especially soft rocks. As a result of processing, it is impossible to obtain .

It is worth remembering that even with the same tone, stains from different manufacturers can have completely different shades. If large-scale work is planned, professionals recommend purchasing formulations from one manufacturer. Wood stain, the price of which is acceptable, allows you to create the most sophisticated design. Plus, it's a timeless classic. And even after many years painted wooden surface will have a beautiful and, most importantly, relevant look.

Methods for applying stain

Material of any tone can be applied with a brush, swab or spray gun. The method of applying the coloring composition depends on:

the size of the area to be treated. In the event that it is necessary to paint a small surface, you can safely use a swab. For large areas it is recommended to use an airbrush or a brush;
types of stain. For example, alcohol mixtures are applied only with a sprayer. Other types of substance can be applied depending on the area.

Stain is an amazing material that will help you quickly and easily transform the interior with minimal cost funds. It will make the color of the wood saturated and emphasize its pattern.

Peculiarities

The peculiarity of the stain on wood lies in its versatility. Forming a special film, it protects the wood from negative impact microorganisms, dampness, mold. Due to this, the service life of the products is increased.

After treatment, the surface acquires a different color(depending on the shade of the stain itself). You can emphasize the texture of wood or change its color radically, bringing to life the most interesting design solutions.

Kinds

Depending on the material that is the basis of the composition, several types of stain are distinguished.

One of the most common species is aquatic. Such a product on the shelves construction stores presented in two versions:

dry;
liquid.

The first is a powder for dilution with water. Before use, it must be filtered. Otherwise, particles of undissolved pigment will prevent the product from being applied in an even layer. The second option is a ready-to-use liquid, poured into various containers.

Water stain is economical, does not require special skills in the process of application, inexpensive. Its advantage is non-toxicity and lack of bad smell. It is ideal for interior work. The treated surface will dry a little over 12 hours.

It is important to consider that water stain will not change the color of wood drastically. She will only make him rich. This will require application in several layers.

Be sure to take into account the peculiarity of such finishing material. Penetrating deep into, it lifts the wood fibers. Due to this, the product acquires a spectacular natural look. However, this effect is negative and reduces the life of wood flooring. The problem can be dealt with if, before applying the composition, treat the tree with water and after a day clean it with an emery cloth.

Alcohol stain also sold in dry or liquid form. To dilute the powder, ethyl alcohol is used. The peculiarity of this composition is rapid drying. Therefore, it is often used to work with wood on the street. If you want to process the product indoors, good ventilation is necessary, since the stain has a specific pungent odor.

Because of high speed it is impossible to achieve an evenly painted surface with a brush. Therefore, the application is carried out with a spray gun.

Oil stain base is usually linseed oil. For breeding, white spirit is used. This composition allows you to paint wooden surfaces in the most various shades. The stain is easy to apply, penetrating deep into the wood and protecting it from moisture. In this case, you can use a brush, as it does not leave streaks. The only downside is that it takes a long time to dry.

Wax stains environmentally friendly and safe for human health. This causes their high cost. They can be used not only for painting wooden surfaces. They can refurbish or fix wood flooring imperfections.

The thickest type of stains are gels. They are applied to soft wood surfaces. With a brush, such a composition is difficult to distribute, so special tampons are used. Basically, gels are used for outdoor work. They will "revive" benches and gazebos in the garden, give originality to the facade and fence.

Acrylic stains are based on resins. The product is an emulsion. It is easy to apply. Penetrating deep enough, the composition protects the surface from the negative effects of moisture. A diverse range of shades will make all the most intimate ideas come true. At the same time, the processed product will not burn out under the sun's rays and will retain color saturation for a long time. Acrylic stains are economical, but expensive.

special kind stain - stain. Its basis is organic solvents, dyes and pigments. The stain dries quickly and gives an even shade that is resistant to fading.

Hydrogen peroxide or acid is the basis for bleach stains. This composition is designed to make the wooden surface lighter for further processing or painting.

Color spectrum

A modern manufacturer offers an abundance of colors and shades that will make the interior unique and special.

Wenge will make it easy to give the treated surface the color of this amazing tropical wood: dark brown with black patches and veins. The shade looks great classic interior, emphasizes the luxury and chic of the situation.

The mahogany color also looks expensive. It has brown and red shades. The peculiarity of the composition is that it perfectly emphasizes the structure of wood. Processed furniture looks good in the interior of almost any style.

The black stain will become ideal solution during processing doorways and doors, floors, stairs and railings. Moreover, if you opt for an oil-based, then the effect will please the owner enough long time because the material is resistant to abrasion.

White color is now at the peak of popularity. It visually expands the space, fills it with comfort. In order to achieve the effect bleached oak”, two types of stain are used. The first layer is a white water-based stain. When it dries, it is treated with an oil composition that contains hard wax. Such a mixture will clog the pores of the wood and give them a gray or black color.

Colored stain will allow you to give decor and interior items a unique look. The color palette is almost limitless.

The dark stain is ideal for creating the ebony effect. To make the imitation of high quality, hardwood is used. Before staining, the surface must be polished.

Blue and blue stain is not used very often in practice. Its main advantage is the ability to give some expressiveness to the finished product.

wood stain of blue color goes well with yellow and white interior colors.

A red stain will focus on the element being processed. However, designers do not recommend using this color in the bedroom.

Compound gray color used only in synthesis with bright colors. Otherwise, the interior will radiate despondency and depression.

Green color has a calming effect. He looks good with yellow. Combining light and dark stain, you can achieve amazing effects. Colorless compounds are designed not only to protect wood from negative environmental factors, but to extend its service life.

What effects can be created?

One of the most common effects widely used in interior design is the effect of aging. In this case, a dark stain is used.

At the initial stage, the surface should be treated with a water-based stain so that there are no gaps and unpainted places. While the layer is not dry, it is processed with a soft sponge. It removes part of the applied mixture. The product is left to dry.

It happens that when combining different types of stain, a striking effect is achieved.

However, it is necessary to strictly follow the rules: first the main background is applied, and then the texture of the wood is emphasized with a different color.

To imitate a noble tree, such as pine or oak, for example, the grinding method is used. The process is characterized by scrupulousness and accuracy. Therefore, quick-drying compounds for this type of work are not recommended.

In order not to make a mistake in the choice and purchase the composition of the desired color, take a board with you. Indeed, depending on the nature of the wood, the stain will also manifest itself in different ways. Deciduous trees absorb stain well, conifers do not.

The wood surface must be prepared before application. Remains of paint are removed from it with sandpaper. With the help of white spirit, degreasing is performed.

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