Expert: Eileen Cronk - 9/5/2006

Question
Eileen,

My house was built in 1915 and has lots of woodwork.  The
current finish is a dark brown and I would like a black wood
finish where you can still see the grain.  What is the process?  
Will I need to take off the baseboards and crown moldings?  Is
the process different, for different kinds of wood?  If so, how do
I find out the wood type?  Any suggestions on a finish that will
stain the wood black, yet still see the grain?  

Answer
Hi Ben
Nice to hear from you.
I would remove the trim if possible.
The process is no different for different wood types.
The current finish will have to be removed with paint stripper, then stain wood with black Minwax stain to retain the wood look, then your finish coat of a poly product.
I like Minwax fast drying poly.
All the products are available at the hardware.
Regards
Eileen