You are here:

Collectibles-General (Antiques)/antique furniture refinishing

Advertisement

Expert: - 6/9/2008


Question
I've run into this problem on a few occasions. After stripping and/or sanding an old piece, when attempting to then stain the piece it does not want to accept color, and have difficulty getting the piece dark enough. Is there something that can be done to the piece to open the pores for staining? Thank so much!

Answer
Hi Curtis
Nice to hear from you.
This happens.
Its because of the particular wood the piece is made from.
Its just so dense it will not absorb stain.
Try a gel stain first.
And as a last resort a dye stain.
Lots of practice on wood scraps with the dye stain as it needs a certain touch and can be tricky.
No stores in my area carry dye stain and your area is likely the same so you will have to order on line.
Nothing can be done to open the pores unfortunately.
Hope this helps.
Regards
Eileen

Collectibles-General (Antiques)

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Eileen Cronk

Expertise

I can answer most questions about the repairing and refinishing of all your old furniture items (the things we call antiques). I can also give you advice on what wood items to choose and what wood items to avoid at auctions, flea markets etc. I DO NOT give appraisals on antiques as this is not my field of expertise.

Experience

I have been repairing, refinishing and of course buying old furniture for the past 30 years. On any given weekend I can be found at auction sales or flea markets searching out a good buy. I have taken several courses in this area over the years, but I find "Hands On" learning to be the best teacher. I can help you avoid the pitfalls and problems of this wonderful rewarding craft.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.