Q:

I am building a vanity and using 1/4-in. cherry-faced plywood for the door panels. Trying to finish the panels without splotchiness, I first used a clear shellac and then a stain. But the shellac apparently worked too well, because the stain doesn’t seem to penetrate. I’ve tried both liquid and gel stains. I got good results using the same technique for the solid-wood door frames. What gives with the panels, and how can I stain them correctly?

J. Knapp, Clinton, CT

A:

The veneers used in today’s plywood are extremely thin and the glue used is very dense. The result is that the shellac you used to partially seal the solid wood has almost completely sealed the plywood. This is why the stain doesn’t penetrate the plywood in the same way as it did the solid wood.

Next time, on scraps of the solid wood and plywood, apply one strip of pure shellac, one strip of shellac cut in a 1:1 ratio with denatured alcohol, and one strip of shellac cut in a 1:2 ratio. When dry, scuff-sand with P320-grit sandpaper, and apply stain. Then judge both boards to see which shellac cuts give the best match.

Photo: Charles Reina

Fine Woodworking Recommended Products

Foam Brushes

Foam brushes are great for applying a variety of stains and finishes, and the 2" wide brush is the most versatile. Comes in a pack of 48.

Buy at Amazon

Bahco 6-Inch Card Scraper

The size and thickness are what matter here. A consistent performer, this Bahco scraper is found in many shops we visit.

Buy at Amazon

Waterlox Original

Versatile wiping varnish is easy to apply and great for both satin and gloss finishes.

Buy at Amazon