Hi
I recently had some old floorboards finished in one part of my flat – unfortunately due to miscommunication (partly my fault), the people doing the job didn’t stain before they lacquered, meaning the part that was refinished now doesn’t match the floor in the rest of the flat. Short of sanding down and starting all over again, I want to know if I have any options? Is it feasible to lightly buff and apply a darker coloured varnish? Are there any stains that can be applied on top of lacquer (I’ve read mixed opinions on gel stains on top of lacquers)
Many thanks
Replies
You can tint varnish. Dont buff -- lightly sand. Experiment on samples first. I would NOT put stain on top of varnish.
Yes, dyes can be applied to some finishes. Be aware this also lessons the appearance of the grain so you’ll have other differences even if you’re able to get it close to the desired color. I think of toning as applying a cloud of that color over the piece, not always desirable. Toning or glazing produces a different effect than applying dye or stain to the bare wood.