So - there I was - working on my web site to update the colors available on my Quarter Map frames (and other frames).  Lately I have been using Varathane stains.  The only reason for using Varathane over MinWax or other staining applications, is that the Varathane dries more quickly than others (in my shop).

 

Going after color charts, I visited both Varathane and MinWax web sites.  In reading about the two, I came up with completely opposite methods for applying the stain.

 

At http://www.rustoleum.com/en/product-catalog/consumer-brands/varathane/premium-wood-stains, (Varathane), they say:  "

For Best Results - Stir thoroughly. On bare wood apply the stain across the grain until the wood is saturated on top. Wipe off the excess after 5-10 minutes."

 

At http://www.minwax.com/woodworking-videos/new-featured/three-step-wood-finishing-process(MinWax) they say to apply the stain with the grain.

 

Personally I have always gone with the grain.  How about y'all, do you go WITH or ACROSS the grain when staining.  I think we all agree that when wiping off excess we go with the grain.

 

I have been a with the grain type.

 

But I spray a lot of it now.

I always did it with the grain

Fred, to a little test piece, you'll see that when you wipe across the grains, you'll catch more pigment in the grain, thus a slightly darker appearance, I suppose it all boils down to the look you want.

I've always gone with the grain, just like when painting.

HA~!!!!!

 

Hold the HVLP gun about 3 - 4 inches away from the work and apply an even slightly overlapped coat of alcohol based stain.

 

What ??  A third way?

 

How's that for a monkey in the works?

 

For decades, I've applied oil stains by hand  and never - ever - paid a lick of attention to grain direction.

With the grain unless I spray.  Then it is however I can get it on.

This is not sexual, lol. I go both ways and let it sit.

 

This being said I've found going across the grain leaves more stain ON the wood while going along the grain tends to give a lighter result.

 

Wiping on in circle motion and then wiping later same way.

This is not sexual, lol. I go both ways and let it sit.

 

This being said I've found going across the grain leaves more stain ON the wood while going along the grain tends to give a lighter result.

 

Wiping on in circle motion and then wiping later same way.

 

 

And then there is that circle thing or both ways!

Lol I'm so used to using Waterlox over it John that I included that too, lol.

 

Good catch!!  lol