How to Choose Wood Stain Colors

The stain of your wood will determine its color. Selecting an appropriate stain is a simple process. However, since the color of stained wood is very difficult to change, you will want to select the correct color the first time. Follow these steps to pick the right stain the first time.   

• Observe the colors in the room where the wood will be. The color of the wood should match the general theme of the room. For example, you would not want extremely dark wood in a room that had all light colors.


• Select a stain that will highlight the best features of the wood. Woods exhibit different qualities that make each type unique. For example, burl ash has a very unique grain pattern. You want to select a stain that will not overpower the individual characteristics of your wooden item. Do not use dark stains on woods such as cedar and burl ash. These dark colors will mask the best qualities of these types of wood.


• Select a stain that is suited to the environment where the wood will be. If wood is going to be exposed to the weather, then you want to use a semi-porous stain. These stains will survive weathering better than stains designed for indoor object. Stains designed for indoor use will fade rapidly if they are exposed to the elements.


• Use wax based stains carefully. These stains are completely permanent. The layer of wax will prevent any future staining. In other words, as the wood ages and the stain fades it is impossible to redo the stain. This will create wood that has an antique look to it.