Category Archives: Staining Furniture

Sponges For Staining Furniture

Staining wood furniture is an art, and it is not an art form that is achieved the same way for each person. Many people argue whether sponges or bristled brushes are better for staining wood, and some people prefer brushes. However, sponges are often preferred by people who are beginners or those who want to make it easier to create an even finish. Sponges do not leave the same types of streaks that some brushes leave, and they can also be used to create an added marbled look to certain types of wood. In some cases, they provide a better overall finish. For example, pine wood soaks up stain quickly, so a sponge or foam brush will give it the most even look.

How To Pick The Right Sponge For Staining Wood

Although regular sponges are still used for staining wood, foam sponge brushes are the most common choice. These are sponges that are shaped and come in different sizes. The tips are usually tapered to a point. To choose the right type of sponge, think about the size of the wood surface. If it is long and wide, a bigger sponge is better. For pieces of wood with smaller surfaces or intricate details, a much smaller and more tapered sponge is better. Also, look at the surface of the sponge. For the most even results, the porous surface should have small openings. If they are spaced far apart, this can result in blotches. To create a more marbled look, some people may prefer handheld sponges.

Where To Find Sponges For Staining Wood

Sponges can be purchased in most home improvement stores. It may be harder to find the smaller sponges or foam brushes in these stores, so look in an art supply shop if necessary. Most major home improvement and art supply retailers sell these items online as well.

How Much Do Sponges Cost?

The cost of sponges will vary depending on their size and quality. Expect to spend anywhere between $1 and $20 depending on specifications. Online stores normally add shipping charges. A high-quality sponge can be reused for several projects if it is cleaned and cared for properly.

Cleaning Up And Maintaining Sponges

It is difficult to remove the stain from sponges, but they are cheap enough that most people buy new ones for each project. However, people who regularly stain furniture may choose to soak their sponges in turpentine or mineral spirits before rinsing them well with water. Sponges should be stored away from sunlight in a sealed bag if they will be reused. The bag will prevent dirt and other debris from collecting on them.

Best Brushes For Staining

The best brushes for staining furniture are those that work on multiple furniture projects. Brushes are the most versatile stain applicator. They’re used to apply clear, semi-transparent or semi-solid viscous stains. Brushes are used to apply solid color stains over previous coats of paint or solid stains. Brushes can be used to apply stains to raw new surfaces or those previously stains. Brushes allow for greater application control and offer deep penetration of stain into wood pores. Continue reading Best Brushes For Staining

How to Refinish Maple Furniture

It’s always important to learn about the characteristics of the wood you’re about to be refinishing before beginning any new project. Refinishing furniture requires patience, attention to detail, and some good ole fashion elbow grease. But I know you can do it! And trust me it really is extremely rewarding when its done.

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Refinishing Techniques when Staining a Table

Most tables, like all other things in the world, deteriorate over time. Because they are used on a daily basis, tables usually wear out long before other furniture does. However, this is not a cause for worry since you can actually improve its appearance yourself. This article talks about how to refinish a table and make it look brand new.

Refinishing a table is a messy job so the first thing you have to do is to pick out a ventilated workplace and cover it with newspapers or tarps. When the workplace is ready, wipe the table with a rag to remove dust and debris and then remove the old finish by using sandpaper, electric sanders, heat guns, or chemical strippers. Chemical strippers or paint removers are usually the most used when it comes to removing old finishes since it is the easiest to use and it gets the job done much quicker. However, make sure that you use the correct stripper and that you follow the instructions that come with it. Also, use gloves and eye protection when working with these so as to avoid being contaminated by chemicals. Apply the stripper to the table and let it sit for as long as it says in the can. When it is ready, remove the old finish by using a putty knife and steel wool. After stripping the finish off the table, use a sandpaper to smoothen it and then clean it with mineral spirits or paint-removal wash. This job will be much easier if you can disassemble your table into parts.

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Make Staining Wood Easier With These Wood Finishing Techniques

Refinishing wood furniture is not as simple as you may think. Staining wood takes a little time and elbow grease, but the finished product will be well worth it. Check out my earlier article on for a detailed explanation of preparation when refinishing wood furniture. before you begin with the staining an old bookshelf, table, desk, etc. Once the existing finish is completely stripped you can follow the wood finishing techniques below to restore any wood of your choosing.

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