Step 1: Test the Stain

Before you begin staining, test the stain on a scrap piece of wood to see how many coats of stain you need. Apply one coat to a small section of the wood, two coats to a second section, three coats to a third section and so on. Allow the stain to dry between coats. Once the stain is dry, you can determine which section looks best.

Step 2: Sand the Surface

Sand the surface of the work piece. Wipe any debris from the work piece with a tack cloth.

Step 3: Apply the First Coat of Stain

Use a small paintbrush to apply the first coat of stain. Brush in the direction of the grain. Wear a mask or respirator for protection from the stain's fumes and open the windows in your shop for ventilation.

Step 4: Wipe Stain With a Cloth

After every three or four strokes of the brush, immediately go over the stain with a rag. Sweep the rag across the stained surface in the direction of the grain.

If you apply too much stain, pour a small amount of paint thinner on a clean rag and sweep it over the work piece in the direction of the grain.