Expert: Eileen Cronk - 9/16/2009

Question
what is the trick for getting a good contrast between the light and dark stripes on quartersawn (tiger) oak? I have to re-finish a kitchen table, so the finish must be durable.  Thank you!

Answer
Hi again Rick
What did I miss in your question to deserve a 4 for knowledge.
You asked "what is the trick for getting a good contrast between the light and dark stripes on quartersawn (tiger) oak?"
My answer was very knowledgable.
Over the years I have done many many pieces of quarter sawn oak furniture and I offered you my very best experience to make this wood look beautiful.
If you can judge my knowledge in this fashion, then perhaps you have a better answer and were testing me LOL.
You should seriously consider joining Alexperts to freely give your time to try to help folks.
For the most part its very rewarding.



Hi Rick
Nice to hear from you.
This is a very interesting question and there are likely many opinions on this.
Quarter sawn oak has a tendancy to look orange if the stain we use does not suit it.
This oak is funny stuff by nature and often these contrasts you mention can be quite ugly.
While I feel this oak looks its best in the lighter shades, I would never just apply a "Golden oak" stain. It really does highlight this orange tendancy and I suggest you don't do this.
Heres my formula.
I use Minwax oil based stains.
Mix 3 parts Minwax Golden Oak to one part Minwax Special Walnut. The walnut seems to stop the orange look in its tracks LOL.
Apply one coat using a soft rag. Wipe back the excess.
Let this dry overnight.
For a durable finish I use Minwax fast drying oil based poly in a satin sheen.
Never put high gloss on a kitchen table top as it looks like heck.
Use 3 coats of the poly. Follow can directions for drying times etc.
Hope this will help you.
Great Question
Eileen