I'm new to woodworking and just got access to a laser cutter! I'm excited to try making tiny items like jewelry and dice. I have a few specific questions:
1. What wood stains will look good on laser-cut plywood while keeping the laser patterns visible? I want to highlight the wood grain, so I'm leaning towards oil-based stains, but I'm not too picky yet since I'm still learning.
2. How can I find small amounts of colorful wood stains? Most stores only have large containers meant for furniture or floors, but I only need to cover small pieces. I'm looking for vibrant colors like green and purple that I know exist! Minwax has some, but their sizes seem excessive for small projects.
3. What clear coat should I use to smooth the surfaces after staining? Will the type of stain I choose affect my options for the topcoat? I appreciate any tips!
3 Answers
You should consider using aniline dyes instead of traditional stains. They give much more intense colors and can be easier to dilute. Don’t forget to prep your wood well by sanding it and possibly using a sealer to avoid blotchy spots. Finish with shellac compatible with water-soluble dyes for a slick surface.
Minwax does have half-pint cans which could be perfect for your needs. Also, check if any local companies sell sample sizes of their stains—you might score some smaller containers that way! If you want more flexibility, grab a stain base and mix in universal colorants to get the shades you want without overspending on huge cans.
Definitely look into Saman wood stains! They come in small containers and tons of colors, and since they're water-based, they’re easy to clean and work with. Just note they might not emphasize the grain as much, but you can build the color with several coats.