Decorating with wood furniture is an excellent way to add depth and character to any room. However,what do you do when your dark hardwood furniture needs a facelift? What if you're looking for something a bit lighter?

This guide will tell you everything you need to know about staining dark hardwood furniture. Read on to learn more.

Prepare Work Area and Wood Furniture

Select an area that is away from obstacles, dust, wind, children,and pets. Place a drop cloth or old newspapers underneath the wood furniture. Then remove anything you don't want to stain, such as doorknobs, hinges, or ornamental pieces.

Sand and Remove Dust

Lightly sand your wood furniture to remove any residual stain or flakes. If there is a lot of debris or you're working with a large area, feel free to break out the electric sander.

Use a vacuum brush to remove all the loose dust thoroughly. Then wipe everything down with a microfiber towel or damp cloth and allow it to air dry.

Mix and Apply the Stain

Put on a pair of rubber gloves and open your furniture stain of choice. Make sure to mix your wood stain with a stir stick, as the pigments can separate over time. Avoid shaking as this can create bubbles that affect the appearance of the stain.

Using a brush or staining pad, apply the stain with the wood grain. Start with the larger, more prominent surfaces. Then move to the areas that are harder to reach and out of sight.

Remove Excess and Let Dry

If you notice the stain dripping or pooling anywhere, pause and wipe it away with a clean cloth. Make sure to do this while you work, as waiting will allow the excess stain to soak in and impact the final appearance of your dark hardwood furniture.

Once you have applied an even coat of stain to the entire piece, allow it to dry in a warm and protected area. This should only take a few hours.

Protect Your Furniture Stain

Finally, you'll need to apply atop coat or sealant. This will protect your wood furniture and keep it looking new and fresh for years to come.

Before You Start: Top Tip for Lightening Dark Hardwood Furniture

If you want to apply a lighter stain to dark hardwood furniture, first, you'll need to remove the previous stain. Start by applying a petroleum-based solvent or furniture stripper, and make sure to do this in a ventilated area.

Allow the stripper to dry, and then rinse with warm water. Repeat as needed until the dark stain is gone.

Know the Steps to Staining Furniture

With these staining tips, you'll be able to take outdated dark hardwood furniture and bring it back to life.

The only question that remains is: where do you get your supplies?From Global Wood Source, of course!

We have everything you need from lumber to turning blocks, stains to topcoats.Check out our selection to get started on your next project.

Global Wood Source is a family-owned and operated lumber yard and mill specializing in exotic woods from around the world and rare domestics. We personally acquire and inspect each piece of log and timber obtained from forests and jungles worldwide.