Dyes and Stains
The key difference between wood dyes and wood stains is that dyes do not protect the wood. Dyes need a finishing coat of varnish, oil, or wax. Overall, a dye gives more control over the depth of colour and, properly finished, will be more permanent.
Wood Dyes
Quick-Drying Dyes
These come in a wide range of shades. While timber tones are 'classics', the availability of other shades tends to be driven by fashion. They may even be marketed under a different name, such as a wash. Shades can be discontinued fairly quickly - another reason for buying enough product to finish the job. Quick-drying dyes are easy to use: they are touch-dry in about 20 minutes and ready for a second coat or the finish after an hour or so.
Spirit-Soluble Wood Dyes
These are available in a variety of timber colours. They penetrate thoroughly, giving a good finish on close-grained hardwoods. You need to wait at least six hours for the dye to absorb before applying the finish.
Concentrated dyes, both water- and spirit-based, give you the flexibility to create your own shades.
Wood Stains
Wood stains give both colour and protection. And unlike tinted varnishes, which will eventually blister, crack, or flake, wood stains just wear off, making them much easier to recoat or touch up at a future date. They are available for interior and exterior use, vary in density (some are nearly opaque), and come in a fairly limited range of wood colours.
