Staining....

[Chuck Ford]

I getting ready to start my next project. I'm a little concerned about the wood I'm going to use. I'm going to use oak and poplar. My question is do they stain very well or would it be better to go with a clear finish such as polyurethane or clear brushing lacquer? I am really leaning toward the lacquer. Thanks........Chuck.

[Jay Boutwell]

Hi Chuck, Oak stains out beautiful however popular is a better paint grade material than it is stain.  Most popular will stain out more in a blotchy effect something like the soft woods as the grains tend to soak in more stain with hard grain spots that will remain almost non effected.  Popular staining  is a task that will try your patience.

lacquer on the other hand is a good choice for both.  I have done many cabinet and furniture projects in both oak and polular  where I have used only a clear coat lacquer and the results are very good. 

 

 

[James P. Cottingham]

A couple of good places to learn more about wood are The Wood Database and Wood Species by Woodworking Network. The latter is geared more towards professionals but there is good info at both sites for amateurs.

You may need to seal the poplar before staining to prevent blotchiness.

[Chuck Ford]

Thanks Jay........I am definately going with the lacquer finish. 

Jay Boutwell said:

Hi Chuck, Oak stains out beautiful however popular is a better paint grade material than it is stain.  Most popular will stain out more in a blotchy effect something like the soft woods as the grains tend to soak in more stain with hard grain spots that will remain almost non effected.  Popular staining  is a task that will try your patience.

lacquer on the other hand is a good choice for both.  I have done many cabinet and furniture projects in both oak and polular  where I have used only a clear coat lacquer and the results are very good. 

 

 

[Chuck Ford]

Thanks James......I am definately going to look into both sites.

James P. Cottingham said:

A couple of good places to learn more about wood are The Wood Database and Wood Species by Woodworking Network. The latter is geared more towards professionals but there is good info at both sites for amateurs.

You may need to seal the poplar before staining to prevent blotchiness.