Do it Yourself Wood-graining

Paint the surface of the composite or non-solid wood with a primer using a foam roller and paintbrush. Allow the primer to dry for 12 hours.

Wipe stain onto the surface. If your item has panels, stain and wood-grain the panels first before the surrounding area. Apply an even coat of stain with a rag.

Drag a faux wood-graining tool through the stain using a slow rocking motion. As you rock the tool it will form the appearance of graining or a knot. Try to keep the tool straight. If you are graining a wide panel you may want to purchase a wider tool. Do not line up your grain knots; this will not look authentic. If you make a mistake, simply wipe on new stain and try again.

Drag the tool in the direction of the wood. In almost all cases the wood grain follows the longer side of the wood. Use a dry brush to clean up puddles, drips and overlaps. Allow the wood grain stain to dry for 24 hours.

Apply the same stain over the wood-grained surface. A darker or more opaque color will hide some of the graining, a lighter coat will reveal more of the graining. Wipe in the direction of the wood using the rag or a dry brush. Cover all of the surface so that no primer or other color is visible. Clean up any problem areas while you work. Allow the second coat of stain to dry for 24 hours.

Seal the finish with a polyurethane clear finish for interior or exterior. Use the same brand as the stain so that the two products will work well together. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the best way to apply the finish and for drying times.