How to Use Aniline Dye on Bare Wood

Woodworkers frequently prefer aniline dyes due to the colorings’ ease of use and resistance to fading over time. Aniline dyes are also desirable because they are transparent and do not leave lap marks; the latter is a problem with other stains. Aniline dyes are available in a wider variety of colors than are stains. One distinct aniline dye disadvantage is that these dyes raise the wood’s grain due to the dyes’ water base. Overcome this disadvantage by preparing the wood before application of the dye (Reference 1).

Sponge
320-grit sandpaper
Vacuum
Tack cloth
Aniline dye
Hot water
Stirrer
Glass or plastic container
Gloves
Rag
Brush
Clear finish

Instructions

- 1
  Lightly sponge the area to be stained with clean water. This will allow the grain to be raised before the dye’s application.
- 2
  Allow the wood to dry. Sand the wood with 320-grit sandpaper to remove the raised grain.
- 3
  Remove the sanding dust by vacuuming the piece and wiping a tack cloth over the surfaces.
- 4
  Mix 1 ounce of aniline dye powder into 1 pint of hot water. Slowly add the powder while you stir the mixture until all the powder is dissolved. Store the dye in a labeled glass or plastic container.
- 5
  Apply the dye in any manner you prefer. Wiping, brushing and spraying are all acceptable methods. Apply the dye in a uniformly wet coat. Wipe off the excess dye with a rag.
- 6
  Allow the dye to dry for 24 hours.
- 7
  Apply any desired clear finish to the dyed wood (Reference 2)

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