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How to Stain Brazilian Cherry

Brazilian Cherry is a 2820 on the Janka Hardness scale, meaning it is one of the hardest woods currently milled. Brazilian Cherry’s hardness and durability make it a popular choice in residential and commercial applications. The colors of the wood range from dark brown to burgundy to orange. Because the appeal of Brazilian cherry lies in its deep, rich tones, some stains are not recommended, as they will obscure the wood's natural beauty. For this reason, it is most common to apply a protective finish to Brazilian Cherry instead of an actual stain.

Things You'll Need

  • Sander
  • Tack Cloth
  • Stain or finish
  • Polyurethane
  • Rag or paint roller
  • Vacuum
  • Medium-grit sandpaper
  • Fine-grit sandpaper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Sand the area to be stained using a medium-grit sandpaper. If you are staining a Brazilian Cherry floor, a floor sander is the most effective tool for this task. If you are staining Brazilian Cherry cabinets or furniture, a hand sander is preferable.

    • 2

      Vacuum the dust created by sanding thoroughly. One of the biggest mistakes people make when finishing wood is not cleaning thoroughly before applying a stain or other finish. Dust and debris will stick to the stain or varnish, giving the wood's surface a rough-looking finish.

    • 3

      Wipe the floor with a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust.

    • 4

      Use the rag or the paint roller to apply the stain you have selected. Make sure to follow the grain of the Brazilian Cherry, and cost it as evenly as possible.

    • 5

      Allow the stain to dry for one hour.

    • 6

      Repeat Steps 3 and 4 if you want the stain to be darker.

    • 7

      Apply the polyurethane using a paint roller. Again, follow the grain of the wood and coat evenly. Polyurethane protects the stain and wood from scratches and fading.

    • 8

      Allow to dry for 6 to 8 hours.

    • 9

      Use the fine-grit sandpaper and gently go over the Brazilian Cherry. In order for the second coat of polyurethane to adhere, the first coat needs a slightly rough surface.

    • 10

      Use the vaccum and tack cloth to remove any dust.

    • 11

      Apply the second coat of polyurethane.

    • 12

      Allow to dry for 6 to 8 hours.