Thread: Black Stain on American Oak

Not used black stain on oak but I have used the vinegar and steel wool ebonizing method. Oak being high in tannins is a very good timber to do this with. Tea can add a bit more tannin for a blacker look. I did a few test pieces on offcuts first. Have to say I was quite pleased with the effect. I have kind of always had mixed outcomes with coloured stains but this is more a chemical reaction so comes out more even. You then follow up with a clear coat of your choice. There are plenty how toos on line.
Been a while.
Regards
John

Originally Posted by orraloon

Not used black stain on oak but I have used the vinegar and steel wool ebonizing method. Oak being high in tannins is a very good timber to do this with. Tea can add a bit more tannin for a blacker look. I did a few test pieces on offcuts first. Have to say I was quite pleased with the effect. I have kind of always had mixed outcomes with coloured stains but this is more a chemical reaction so comes out more even. You then follow up with a clear coat of your choice. There are plenty how toos on line.
Been a while.
Regards
John

Thanks for the suggestion John. The vinegar and steel wool method sounds interesting! I'll try it out over the next few days

It takes about a week to brew the vinegar/ steel wool mixture. Use a glass jar with a lid but leave the lid loose while it brews to let out the gas buildup. I guess if you want really black then go the stain but I was after black but with plenty grain showing. I first applied strong tea (6 teabags to a cup) to add more tannin before the vinegar mix. I made about 0.5 ltr but a little goes a long way. Dont know how long it lasts in the jar for future use but its cheap and easy to make.


Ebonizing Wood with home made Iron Acetate and Bark Tannin - YouTube

Regards
John

Originally Posted by orraloon

It takes about a week to brew the vinegar/ steel wool mixture. Use a glass jar with a lid but leave the lid loose while it brews to let out the gas buildup. I guess if you want really black then go the stain but I was after black but with plenty grain showing. I first applied strong tea (6 teabags to a cup) to add more tannin before the vinegar mix. I made about 0.5 ltr but a little goes a long way. Dont know how long it lasts in the jar for future use but its cheap and easy to make.


Ebonizing Wood with home made Iron Acetate and Bark Tannin - YouTube

Regards
John

Thanks John. Much appreciated. I'll give this a go and post a few photos up...

Bit late to the party but, you could try Feast Watson Prooftints. The Dye stain is very potent and will send Oak black with one coat.