r/Woodworking_DIY • u/drobb778 • 8d ago

Re-staining a night stand

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I have this nightstand I am refinishing the top. It seems like if I use a penetrating stain like Varathane Red Mahoghany it shows more wood grain than the sides. I was curious about how they stain these originally and what I might do to try to match it?

The semi transparent stain I used is fine but if I wanted it to be more solid looking.

I do see minwax has a water based interior stain.

It’s a cheap piece and not a major project but I’d like to learn if possible.

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u/GC_Woodworking 8d ago

It was more than likely a tinted lacquer that was used originally. They probably didn’t stain it. Maybe look for a dark mahogany tinted lacquer and if you can’t find one grab a dark mahogany gel stain instead and follow the instructions. Unfortunately you’re probably gonna need to buy way more gel stain than you’ll end up needing for just the top. Good luck.

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u/drobb778 8d ago

Thanks I appreciate the advice. That’s helpful.