Stain or Varnish

[thebullfrog07]

Hi, nearing completion of futon (featured in Aus woodsmith #38) was wondering what would look best between stain or varnish. I think i want to stain it, i want a deep colour like this Big Tree Big Daddy Futons (http://woodenshipsonline.com/Futons/Big-Daddy-Set.asp), also after i stain should i use a high gloss varnish. i have only ever stained before and that was a meatsafe, i used wattyl stain and varnish. Please reccomend products to use that are avaliable at local K & D mitre 10 and bunnings etc.
thanks
Jeremy

[munruben]

Take a look at this (http://www.woodworkforums.com/f11/works-time-photos-105782/) for a finish. Good luck with your project.

[thebullfrog07]

thanks for that, i like the high gloss, thats what i would like, but can you stain it before then use what you used

[Honorary Bloke]

thanks for that, i like the high gloss, thats what i would like, but can you stain it before then use what you used


Yes. Be sure to read the directions on the stain to make certain it can be used under water-based topcoats. Most can. If not, lay down a seal coat of de-waxed shallac between the stain and the topcoat. Be sure to let the stain cure out well before starting the next finish.

[thebullfrog07]

i got Wattyl Traditional Craftsman finish Contemporary Maple in a 500mL tin and Wattyl Estapol Gloss in a 1 Litre tin. These two products cost me a total of $59.21 ($36.23 for the stain and $22.98 for the varnish).

thanks for help all