Why Varathane Is The Only Stain I Use
Since when did buying wood stain become as thrilling as purchasing a rental video on a Friday night at Blockbuster? (Oh – the good ol’ days!) Hardware store shelves are stocked up with all sorts of wood coloring and finishing products these days. These expansions have got me saving my “adult allowance” and going back to see what’s in the new arrival section weekly. It’s a good thing my piggy bank is more flexible at this age – this stuff is a lot more expensive than renting a new release video.
What are we buying in these little cans, liquid gold? I’ve seen some of these products going for upwards of $80.00. Call me old fashioned; a high price tag doesn’t convince me that a product will provide more superior results. I always aim to get the best bang for my buck while achieving exceptional proven results. That’s what I call a DIY hack right there! Luckily, I found a budget-friendly, premium quality stain option to stock my shelves with and to share with you.
Stocked-Up and On A Budget
Everyone has their preference when it comes to their finishing options. But if you’re new to the stain game, let me give you some solid advice. I’ve tried dozens of stains, and nothing compares to my favorite brand Varathane.
Not only is this stuff affordable, but they also have every finishing application you could think of. From polys to specialty wood conditioners, charred and aged wood accelerators, whitewash, and grain enhancers, the list goes on. Their exterior finishes are durable and hold up over time. Varathane has got you and all your staining projects covered.
Speaking Of Coverage….
The coverage in these cans is impressive! It’s hard to believe such a small compact tin holds this much color. The premium pigment dye in this line of products is intended for one coat results, enhancing the life of this can. It’s a win-win scenario if you ask me. Approved!
Availability Is Key!
Varathane is stocked up in just about every American and Canadian hardware store, making it an easy item to find whenever you need it. Convenience plays a big part in DIY-ing. You can even order it on Amazon and have it delivered to your doorstep.
Some finishing products are challenging to locate and take time to order online from suppliers in advance. Tracking down an independent specialty store is an option but can be a pain and have you driving out of your preferred radius.
Approved Surfaces
The Varathane approved surface list includes floors, furniture, paneling, trim, cabinets, doors, fences, railings, and more. That’s pretty much every wood surface in and out of your home! Check out the full Varathane product list here.
The application process has proven easy and effortless in my experience, all thanks to the detailed written instructions on the label that guided me through the process. Many finishes require different sanding and staining processes before application. It’s essential to follow these instructions to obtain accurate results.
Protect the instructions by snapping a picture of them with your cellphone. Another trick is to place a piece of painter’s tape over the text before every use so that you don’t drip over the words. If all else fails, Varathane provides instructions for all of their products online.
All The Colors!
This right here might be what I enjoy the most about this brand of stains. There is such a wide array of colors to choose from—Vintage Aqua Blue, Carbon Grey, Rustic Sage, Rose, just to name a few.
They carry an expansive range of Natural wood grain selections Chestnut, Special Walnut, Kona, Traditional Cherry; you name it – they have it.
It doesn’t stop there. You can customize and match your color shades by mixing the available stain colors at a 1:1 ratio. For example, if you combine Black Cherry and Sunbleached, you end up with a bright purple stain. This is some next level David Blane staining magic happening before your eyes. Varathane provides an easy to read mixing legend on their website.
Give It A Go
You may have a product that works well for you already, but if you’re open to trying something new, I highly suggest Varathane wood stain for your next DIY. It’s inexpensive and the perfect product to expand your finishing skills and techniques.
Jesse Tellier
