Hello everyone, my name is Stefano, and I'm a new user on the forum.A few weeks ago, I came across a video on YouTube where I saw a stunning black wooden ceiling, and I immediately fell in love with it.

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I decided to try and recreate it in my apartment, so I purchased some tongue and groove fir woods and started working on it.
I must confess that I have no prior knowledge of wood or woodworking techniques, but I was captivated by the ceiling's aesthetic and the remarkable craftsmanship involved in working with wood, leading to countless beautiful outcomes.Perhaps I was a bit rash in diving headfirst into something completely unfamiliar to me, but my passion pushed me to give it a shot nonetheless.
I gathered information from various online sources and did my best to comprehend the process, but the final result clearly indicates my lack of understanding.
Allow me to outline the steps I followed based on my understanding, although I acknowledge that I might not have grasped all the necessary nuances:



  • I meticulously sanded all the planks using an orbital sander with 80, 120, and 180 grit sandpaper.
  • After each sanding session, I sprayed a fine mist of water on each plank to raise the wood fibers that had been compressed by the sander, subsequently re-sanding them with the next level of grit.
  • I procured a black water-based wood stain, specifically the Rubio Monocoat PreColor Easy Black, as well as a finishing oil, the Rubio Monocoat Oil Plus 2C Black. As far as I understand, these products are specifically designed for parquet.
  • Prior to applying the black stain, I diligently cleaned each planks with mineral spirits.
  • I applied two coats of the black stain, allowing sufficient drying time between each coat, followed by a single coat of the black oil, adhering to the manufacturer's instructions regarding application techniques.



Regrettably, the outcome is far from satisfactory, and it did not meet my expectations.First and foremost, I am aware that the wood used in the video that inspired me is likely not fir, but a more valuable timber, which undoubtedly influences the final result.To begin with, these are the planks treated solely with the black water-based stain.

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In my opinion, they appear rather unattractive—dull and exhibiting an odd play of light, almost as if the surface shines in certain areas, creating a displeasing effect. Even the bare planks, without the black stain, retain this underlying sheen that I find undesirable. I would like to ascertain whether it can be eliminated or if it is an inherent characteristic of fir.
The following image provides a closer look at one of the plank, still treated exclusively with the black stain. The wood exhibits a spongy texture, which might account for the sporadic glossy effect. I have read that fir indeed possesses notably large pores. However, given my limited knowledge, it is possible that I either inadequately sanded the wood or overlooked certain preliminary steps.

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This is how the plank appears after applying the oil.

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It exudes a "tar-like" appearance, resembling plastic and lacking a natural feel. Additionally, the porosity and luminous effects persist. I find myself uncertain. I am not particularly satisfied with the outcome.My initial expectation was to achieve a result akin to that of a parquet floor, but the current state falls far short of that vision. Under suitable lighting conditions, I must admit that it does have a certain appeal. However, it necessitates finding the precise lighting and angles to present it in a favorable manner.

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Considering the considerable amount of time and resources invested, I am hesitant to settle for an unsightly outcome. Moreover, I am unwilling to abandon the project after expending such effort, although I must confess that I am currently disheartened.
Therefore, I turn to you for guidance. If anyone can provide me with advice, I would be immensely grateful.