How to Stain With Varnish

Definition

• Sometimes refereed to as colored varnish or mistakenly refereed to as colored lacquer, this type of finish has stain toner or color mixed into the varnish. It's not paint, but instead consists of a tinted base varnish that is applied just like ordinary varnish. When purchasing the varnish, consult with a professional to ensure that the colorant stain and varnish formula match. You can then mix the stain color with the varnish according to your needs and apply it just as you would normal varnish. It's important to note that there are two basic types of stain and varnish: oil-based and water-based. Never mix oil-based products with water-based products.

Mixing Is Key

• It's very important that the stain additive mix thoroughly with the varnish. Without proper mixing, the varnish could appear streaked or it could weaken the chemical balance of the varnish. That's why you must consult with a professional before attempting to mix the two products. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations, and use the same brand of stain and varnish. Add a few drops of toner stain to the varnish and mix it thoroughly with a clean stick. Add a few more drops for more tint or darker color. The varnish should always remain relatively clear. If it gets cloudy and you can't see through the varnish, you've used too much and it may appear more like paint.

Testing

• Apply the stained varnish to a piece of scrap wood. It should be the same species as your intended project, and sanded similarly with the same grit sandpaper. If you don't have scrap pieces available, locate a small area on your piece that's not visible and apply the test varnish to that. Allow it to dry, and then check the color. If it's too light, add more stain. If it's too dark, add more varnish. Some stains can be thinned with solvents or thinners to lighten the color if they're too dark to begin with. Check with the manufacturer for product recommendations and amounts before attempting to thin stain or varnish.

Application

• Apply the varnish with a brush or air gun. Apply a thin sealer coat first and allow it to dry. Sand the first coat lightly by hand, using a folded piece of 180-grit sandpaper. Wipe off the dust using a tack cloth. The varnish should feel smooth and even. If you feel any rough spots, it's probably caused by airborne particles or overspray from an air gun. Sand the varnish again until it's smooth and wipe it down with the tack cloth. Finish by adding two or three more coats of varnish. You only need to sand after the first coat.