Woodworking Tip: Secret To Better Staining

[@natefox8979]

What a great idea, and such a succinct video that proves the point of the initial statement by showing us a beautifully applied technique. thanks so much for teaching me how to do my job better!

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

You're welcome. Glad you found it helpful.

[@eugenius1192]

I use a strong magnet to make sure I’ve removed all the stray steel wool bits before finishing. Even after vacuuming the surface, it’s surprising how much it picks up.

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

Oooh. I like this idea.

[@MCsCreations]

Oh, wow... Excellent tip indeed! Thanks a bunch, dude! 😃 Stay safe there with your family! 🖖😊

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

Glad you found it helpful.

[@jennybarnes4806]

I use a non-abrasive woven pad (Scothch-brite white) rather than steel wool. No fibres to worry about.

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

I do appreciate the light abrasion that the steel wool provides. So maybe gray pad?

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

A woven pad would be a great solution for those who use water-based stains as well -- that's an area I need to play with more.

[@tomhastings4596]

What number of steel wool was used?

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

It is #0000 Steel Wool

[@joemilmoe]

Does this only work for a gel stain or would you recommend it for a typical water based stain also?

[@Art-is-craft]

You have to experiment.

[@kevinmccarthy8670]

do you feel it isn't necessary to add apply a pre-stain?

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

I very rarely (pretty much never) do a stain conditioner/pre-stain. Beech accepts stain graciously. My preference is for gel stains as well which do a better job of even application.

[@dpmeyer4867]

thanks

[@patcb829]

Great tips in the video and comment section. Thanks.

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

Always a pleasure. Finishing offers so many options for customizing projects.

[@glencrandall7051]

I am not a fan of steel wool. If you don't get rid of all the little pieces that break off you can get rust spots on your project. There have to be better methods of applying the stain

[@WoodsmithShowandmagazine]

Steel wool has been used for quite a long time. So it would seem like there would be rusty furniture all over the place, but there isn't. Something about it works. No technique is right for everyone. If you apply oil-based finishes, steel wool isn't an issue.