Want to learn how to properly prepare wood for staining and finish? This is your step-by-step guide to creating a lasting and quality wood piece.
In part 1 I showed you how I planned the DIY custom closet shelf using shelfhelpnow.com and cutlistoptimizer.com to help me with the layout and panel cutting optimization. If you missed it, you can read part 1 here.
In part 2 I am going to take you through the sanding and staining process, and you can watch the YouTube video below where I take you through the process of how to stain wood like a pro in a few easy steps.
How to Stain Wood for Beginners
Products used for this project:
Step 1: Sanding
Sanding the wood prior to staining will remove any defects from the wood. By sanding thoroughly you will get an even stain coverage. Sanding prepares the wood and allows the stain to adhere evenly in order to achieve an even appearance and smooth texture.
For this I used an orbital sander and 220 grit sandpaper and sanded going with the direction of the wood until it felt smooth to the touch. Using a clean cloth, wipe away any dust from the wood to ensure surface is clean before applying the pre-stain.
Step 2: Pre-Stain Conditioner
Treating the wood with Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner prepares the wood for staining which helps prevent streaks and blotches. It opens up the wood grain and allows the stain to penetrate evenly.
Stir the can of pre-stain conditioner. Apply in the direction of the grain using a staining pad or a clean dry brush. Allow to dry for approximately 20 minutes.
Follow with another light sanding following the grain of the wood to remove any texture from the pre-stain and smooth it down once more before applying stain. Wipe with a clean cloth.
Step 3: Applying Stain
Stir the can of stain thoroughly to ensure even color. Wearing gloves will help protect your hands from also becoming stained! Dip staining pad in to the stain and spread it on the wood applying it in the direction of the grain of the wood.
Continue to apply stain in a thin even layer across entire surface until it is completely covered. Focus mainly on getting the surface covered evenly while avoiding streaks and splatters.
Depending on how deep you want the color, after 5-15 minutes, use a clean rag and wipe away any excess stain following the grain of the wood. If you want a darker stain, let the stain dry completely and then repeat the process until desired color is achieved.
Step 4: Applying a Finish
Applying a finishing coat to the project will help seal the wood so that it will last a long time and stay durable. My preferred finish is polycrylic. Wait 24 hours after staining before applying the finishing coat.
Stir the can of polycrylic gently so as not to cause any bubbles. Be sure the surface is clean and free of dust. Dip sponge brush in polycrylic and apply a thin even coat using nice long strokes following the grain of the wood. Let that coat dry completely.
Apply 2-3 coats of finishing coat, sanding with 220 grit sandpaper in between each coat. Once you have reached your desired finish, let it dry completely before using it.
Coming up next in Part 3 will be the project reveal! You won’t want to miss it, so stay tuned!!
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