Staining wood sounds easy — until you do it. Compared to painting, stain is less forgiving and more variable, but when done right, it delivers a warm, rich, professional look that’s hard to beat.
At our stores, we help everyone from first-time DIYers to seasoned woodworkers pick the right stains, understand how they work, and avoid the common headaches that come with using them. This blog is your go-to guide for understanding interior wood stains and how to get the best results from them.
What Is a Wood Stain, Really?
Wood stain is a liquid that soaks into wood to change its color while still letting the grain show through. Unlike paint, stain doesn’t sit on top of the surface — it penetrates it.
There are several types:
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Oil-based stains: Longer working time, deeper penetration, but stronger smell and slower dry time.
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Water-based stains: Easier cleanup, faster drying, and more environmentally friendly.
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Gel stains: Thicker and easier to control, great for vertical surfaces or uneven wood.
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Dye stains: Super vibrant and soak in quickly — great for certain effects or when you want to mix custom tones.
We carry trusted brands like General Finishes, Old Masters, and Saman, each with their own strengths.
Choosing a Stain Color
Picking a stain color isn’t as simple as grabbing a swatch. Wood is a natural material, and its original color can dramatically affect the final look. A light stain on red oak won't look the same on pine or birch.
Tips:
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Always test your color on the actual wood you're using — ideally a scrap piece.
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Expect variation. Even boards from the same tree can absorb stain differently.
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Be careful of overlap marks. Some stains, like Saman, are designed to minimize this issue and make application more forgiving.
Staining Is Trickier Than Painting
With paint, what you see is what you get. Stain is more of a relationship — between your product, your wood, and your technique. Some of the challenges include:
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Highlighting every sanding mark or scratch
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Creating blotchiness if the wood absorbs unevenly
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Once it’s on, it’s hard (or impossible) to lighten it
But if you take your time, the result is a richer, more natural finish that paint just can’t duplicate.
To Seal or Not to Seal?
Interior stains almost always need a topcoat. Stain alone doesn’t protect the wood — it just changes the color.
Topcoat options include:
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Water-based polys: Like General Finishes High Performance — quick-drying and available in multiple sheens.
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Oil-based polys: Like Old Masters — great depth and warmth, but slower drying.
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Wipe-on finishes: More subtle, easier for beginners, but may need more coats for full protection.
For exterior-rated stains, you might not need a separate sealer — some products have built-in protection. But always check the label or ask us for advice.
Compatibility Matters
Don’t mix water and oil unless you really know your products. Some stains and topcoats are not compatible and can lead to peeling, bubbling, or uneven finishes. Always pair products that are meant to work together, or give us a call to check before starting.
A Word on Saman’s Technology
If you’re looking for a smooth, forgiving experience, Saman stands out. It’s a water-based stain that avoids lap marks — meaning you can work slower and still get even color. That’s a big deal, especially on larger surfaces or when you're new to staining. It also offers rich tones without overpowering the grain, which a lot of people love.
Final Thoughts
Stain takes more prep, more testing, and more patience — but the results are worth it. Whether you're redoing kitchen cabinets, finishing a built-in, or just experimenting, we’re here to help.
Stop by one of our stores or contact us with your project details — we can guide you through stain selection, color matching, and topcoat compatibility so you don’t waste time or materials.
Need Help? We’ve Got You.
We carry stains and topcoats from General Finishes, Old Masters, Saman, and more — plus all the tools you need to apply them right. Visit us in-store or reach out with questions. We’re here to help you stain smart.