VARNISH

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WOOD DYE AND STAIN

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Varnish and Paint puts a layer on the surface of the wood. Dyes / stains on the other hand, penetrate the surface fibres. The most common dyes/stains tend to be water or solvent based. When applied, they need a further finish such as varnish or wax, in order to protect the surface and to give a matt, silk of gloss finish.

The water based dyes are more environmentally friendly, but when applied tend to raise the grain of the wood, giving a rough feel. They can be purchased as ready mixed solutions or as powders and crystals, to which water is added. A little smoothing with fine abrasive may be needed before a further finish is applied.

Solvent based dyes, dry quickly and have the advantage that they do not raise the grain, unlike water based dyes. Varnish or wax is often used to give an additional finish.

Dyes and stains are supplied in a range of vibrant colours or wood based tones. Most can be thinned and mixed, to achieve the required colour/shade.

They are applied with a paint brush, a soft cloth or even a paint pad (if covering a large area). The preferred method is using a soft cloth, but this depends on the user. Always wear disposable latex gloves, because the dye will ‘stain’ hands and fingers.

SAMPLE WOOD DYE POWDERS

SAMPLE OIL AND WATER BASED DYES AND COLOUR RANGE

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