Can You Stain Plywood?

Oil-Based Stain

• Oil-based stain deeply penetrates plywood and maintains the beauty of the wood grain. Stain should be applied by brush or a roller in small sections at a time. Frequently stirring the stain and adding a second coat, 20 to 60 minutes after the first, will achieve the best results. Apply the second coat, before the first one dries, for optimum results.

Gel Stain

• Gel stain is thicker then liquid stain and gives better control over stain penetration and the desired outcome. Gel stain is recommended for staining wood veneers.

Water-Based Stain

• Water-based stain simplifies interior projects via its quick drying time, soap and water cleanup and less need to ventilate when using the product. Water-based stain can be applied with a brush or rag. Excess stain should be removed in less than three minutes.

Tips

• Used rags soaked with oil-based stain are flammable. Burying them in dirt, submerging them in water or sealing them in an air-tight container is the safest disposal method.