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Types of Stains
The first thing to decide is what type of stain you want to use on your
wicker furniture. In staining wicker, there are three basic
types of stains, the first being a water-based
stain. This type of stain is most economical, but it isn’t
a convincingly superior finish. The second type of stain is an oil-based
stain, which is superior to a water based stain. The only
downfall, though, is the fact that it can wear off if applied unevenly.
Finally, the third type is alcohol-based stain.
This stain is the most superior, as it allows the grain to show through,
creating a gorgeous appearance.
Before you jump right into staining your wicker furniture, it is a good idea to understand the steps and processes. There are many components that make up staining wicker that can be combined into eight easy steps.
1.) Sand
2.) Test Stain Colors
3.) Stir Stain Well
4.) Cover the Floor
5.) Apply Stain
6.) Ragging Off
7.) Let Dry
8.) Finish
Looking at the first step, sanding, you will need to sand the entire surface. After sanding, wipe down the surface with a tack rag or cloth that is barely wet. This helps get rid of dust left behind from sanding. After using the tack rag, go over the surface again with a dry lint-free rag. Once you have finished this, you are ready to test your stain colors.
Shake the unopened can of stain well to mix the tint. After opening, stir it using a paint stick. This insures that you will have a nice even layer of stain to work with.
Using a sample piece of wicker, apply a very small amount of your choice of stain. This process allows you to see what the finish product will look like, and whether you will want to choose a different stain or stay with the same stain. Once you have decided on a stain to use, you are ready to prepare for staining.
Once you have prepared the stain, it is time now to cover the floor with plastic tarp. On top of the tarp, spread out newspapers, which act as a safety layer for spilt stain. Finally lay blocks of wood under your project. This is especially important when staining items with legs, it allows you to stain the legs all the way down to the bottom.
The next step is to apply the stain. Make sure you don’t let the stain sit too long or it will get tacky and be extremely hard to remove. Once you have applied stain to the whole project, you’re ready to move to the next step.
For this step, you will need plenty of rags (depending on the size of the project). Use clean lint-free rags and wipe off the excess layers of stain.
Once the stain is completely ragged off, let the wicker dry. The key to this stage is making sure the location is dust free and not humid. You will need to let it dry for at least 24 hours.
After the 24 hours have passed, bring the project back out to the working area. You will finish the project by applying two coats of a water-based latex polyurethane. It may appear milky, but it will dry clear. For a nice smooth finish sand with a high grit lightly in between each coat. One tip is to apply more to the areas that will have most wear, and it will extend the life of the finish.
This will leave you with a fine piece of wicker furniture that will
last a lifetime.
(Click on underlined words for link to product.)
Contact Information:
Please call Toll Free 1-800-787-3355 if you require further assistance.
Van Dykes Restorers
PO BOX 278
39771 S.D. HWY. 34.
WOONSOCKET, SD 57385
Order Line: 1-800-558-1234
E-mail: restoration@cabelas.com
