The first question you might have is, can wood be restained without stripping it? The answer to this question is yes, and it is easier to apply a darker stain over a light one than the reverse. In the same way, a dark stain cannot be lightened; a lighter stain must be applied over the dark one. Hence, it is important to test stains before you begin any wood project.
Gel stains
When you need to refinish wood, gel stains can help you do it without stripping it. This type of stain is applied thinly and needs to be stirred before applying. If you are planning to darken your wood, you can choose different colors and mix them to achieve a custom shade. You can also use the gel stain to refresh the existing wood finish. After applying the stain, test it on a small area of the wood to see if it’s still wet. If it’s dry, you can simply repeat the process.
First, prepare your wood for the refinishing process. To prepare the surface for the refinishing, use a degreaser and warm water to clean any dirt or grease that might be present. If the dirt is too tough to remove, use a mixture of equal parts denatured alcohol and water. Rinse with clean water. Repeat this process to ensure that the stain adheres to the wood surface evenly.
Oil-based stains
Oil-based stains are highly durable and can be reapplied without the need for stripping the wood. Before re-staining your furniture, you should disassemble it, remove any handles or drawers, and remove any shelves. If you plan to stain the entire surface, use painter’s tape to mask any obstructions. It’s also a good idea to wear old clothing, protective gloves, and safety goggles to protect your eyes and skin from any potential stains. Finally, you should always clean the wood with soap and water. Afterward, wipe it dry with a clean cloth to prevent a mess.
Pre-sealing the wood can also help prevent blotting and help achieve a beautiful color. To obtain a dark stain, apply a second coat of the stain once the first has dried. If the first coat is too light, you can always re-stain it after a few days. Afterwards, you can easily re-stain the wood if you want a different shade.
Water-based stains
If you decide that the first coat of stain is not the right color, you can always reapply it with a different one. Unlike oil-based stains, water-based stains can be reapplied without stripping wood. When reapplying water-based stain, you must completely dry the wood first. Otherwise, it will be blotchy and you’ll have to start over.
Although water-based stains are the most durable type of stain, they’re not the best choice if you want to protect your wood from the elements. The problem with water-based stains is that they don’t protect against moisture, which means they’re not ideal for outdoor use. Plus, you can use them over an existing stain without having to strip it off. These stains can last up to 5 years.
Varathane’s water-based stain
When you’re looking to refinish wood furniture and trim, Varathane’s water-based interior stain offers the benefits of a rich, one-step solution. Its semi-transparent formula enhances the grain of wood and dries quickly. If you want a darker look, you can add a second coat. The stain is also low-odor, making it ideal for interior projects. It is not, however, suitable for floors.
You can apply the polyurethane stain to bare wood easily with a foam brush or cloth rag. While you shouldn’t apply too much stain in one application, you should test the stain on an inconspicuous piece before applying it to the whole piece. Testing the stain will ensure that you don’t end up with a drippy, uneven stain.