Rustic room with stained home decor from Sydney's Collection.

The Top Three Methods for Staining Wood: DIY Furniture and Decor Made Easy

23. Januar 2025

Staining wood is an art—and a little science, too. Whether you're tackling a new DIY project or revamping old furniture, the right staining technique can bring out the rich wood grain and create a warm, inviting finish. But where do you start? Let’s explore the top three methods for applying oil-based stains, their pros and cons, and tips to ensure an even stain every time. Need inspiration for your next project? Visit our home page to browse handmade decor and gifts.

Method 1: The Classic Brush

Using a standard bristle brush is a go-to method for many DIY enthusiasts. It’s straightforward, widely available, and great for covering large surfaces quickly.

How it works:

Dip the brush into the oil-based stain, ensuring it’s not overly saturated.
Apply the stain with the grain of the wood, working in manageable sections.
After a few minutes, wipe off the excess with a clean cloth to prevent streaking.

Pros:

Great for intricate designs or grooves.
Allows for precise application.

Cons:

Bristles can leave marks if not careful.
Requires thorough cleaning or disposal after use.

Staining wood with a paint brush with a natural, warm oil based stain.

Method 2: Foam Brush

A foam brush offers a smoother alternative to traditional bristles. It’s especially helpful for beginners who might struggle with brush marks.

How it works:

Load the foam brush with stain and glide it along the wood’s surface, following the grain.
Foam absorbs more stains than bristles, so you may need to wipe excess frequently.

Pros:

Leaves a smoother, even stain.
Disposable, so there’s no cleanup.

Cons:

Less durable—can tear on rough surfaces.
Not ideal for detailed work.

A black foam brush for staining handmade wood decor.

Method 3: White Cloth or Rag (The Hands-On Favorite)

Using a clean, non-abrasive white cloth or rag is my personal favourite. Sure, it’s a bit more labour-intensive, but the deep, rich finish you can achieve makes it worth the effort. A rag works perfectly for projects like our Solid Wood Couch Caddies.

How it works:

Saturate the cloth with stain and rub it into the wood in circular motions, then finish by stroking with the grain.
Keep a separate cloth handy to wipe off excess after a few minutes.

Pros:

Allows for the most control over the finish.
Excellent for achieving a rich, warm wood finish.

Cons:

Can be more time-consuming.
Requires more stain, making it slightly pricier.

For larger statement pieces, check out our Hand-Distressed Mantel Slipcovers for inspiration.

FAQs About Staining Wood

What is the best way to apply stain to wood?

I prefer using a clean, non-abrasive white cloth. While it might cost a little more due to the extra stain required, the results speak for themselves. You get a deep, even finish that’s hard to beat. Check out our Rustic Handmade Mantel Slipcovers using this method.

Is it better to stain wood with a brush or rag?

It depends on your project. Brushes are excellent for detailed or grooved surfaces, while rags give you more control and a smoother finish. Personally, I’d choose a rag for most projects, especially smaller ones like Solid Wood Couch Caddies.

How do you dispose of wet oil-stained cloths?

Safety first! Wet, oil-stained cloths can spontaneously combust if not handled properly. Lay them flat to dry outdoors or submerge them in water inside a sealed metal container before disposal.

Are staining methods the same for exterior vs. interior projects?

Yes, and no. The same staining methods apply, but keep in mind that for exterior projects, you’ll want to use stains and finishes specifically designed to withstand the elements. Interior stains don’t require the same level of durability.

How long do you leave a wood stain on before wiping it off?

Typically, 5-15 minutes is ideal. The longer you leave it, the deeper the colour. Just don’t let it dry completely before wiping, or it may become blotchy.

Can you stain over wood without sanding?

Technically, yes, but the results won’t be as smooth or even. Sanding opens the wood grain, allowing the stain to penetrate more deeply and evenly. If you're skipping this step, be prepared for a lighter and potentially uneven finish with raised wood grain.

The only time that this method would be approved is when creating a rustic or vintage, worn look. This is achieved without sanding because you want the piece to look rough, worn, and rugged.

Handmade stained rustic mantel slipcover by Sydney's Collection

Optional Tips for an Even Finish

Using a wood conditioner before staining can help achieve an even finish by preventing blotchiness. However, remember that the conditioner will limit how deeply the stain penetrates, resulting in a lighter colour. For a protective topcoat, finish with polyurethane. Without it, the stain is more vulnerable to wear and tear.

How to use wood conditioner:

This one is very easy, purchase a good conditioner like Min-Wax Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner (not affiliated).

Stir, stir, stir, stir.
Bunch up and dip half of a clean, white rag in the conditioner.
Spread the conditioner over your surface, you will see that a small amount goes a long way with its watery texture, use liberally.
Let sit for 5-10 minutes.
Wipe with a new clean white rag to remove the excess.
Wait at least 10 minutes for the conditioner to rest into the wood.
Apply Stain.

A full room of natural stained wood and handmade wood decor.

In Closing

Staining wood is not just a finishing touch—it’s an opportunity to bring out the natural beauty of the material and make your DIY projects shine. Whether you choose a brush, foam brush, or cloth, each method offers its own unique benefits. Pair your work with the perfect handmade accents from Sydney’s Collection to elevate your space. If you have questions or need guidance, feel free to contact us. Happy staining!