Stains & Dyes

About Stains & Dyes

Stains and dyes are essential finishing products used to enhance, colour, and protect wood, fabric, leather, and other porous materials. Whether you're a professional furniture maker, carpenter, or DIY enthusiast, MyToolShed.co.uk stocks a comprehensive range of wood stains, fabric dyes, and leather dyes to achieve professional-quality results. These products penetrate beneath the surface to provide rich, long-lasting colour whilst highlighting the natural grain and texture of the material.

From traditional oil-based wood stains to modern water-based formulations, and from subtle toners to vibrant colour dyes, MyToolShed offers products suitable for interior and exterior applications. Our selection includes ready-mixed stains for convenience and concentrated dyes for custom colour matching, along with specialist applicators to ensure even, streak-free coverage on every project.

Applications

Stains and dyes are used across numerous trades and applications:

• Carpentry and joinery: Finishing furniture, cabinetry, doors, and wooden architectural features
• Flooring specialists: Colouring and refinishing wooden floors, decking, and parquet
• French polishers and restorers: Matching existing finishes and restoring antique furniture
• Shopfitters: Creating bespoke finishes for retail displays and commercial interiors
• Upholsterers: Dyeing leather and fabric for furniture repair and renovation
• DIY enthusiasts: Home improvement projects including garden furniture, fencing, and interior woodwork
• Boat builders: Staining and protecting marine timber

Choosing The Right Stains & Dyes

Selecting the appropriate stain or dye depends on several key factors:

• Material type: Ensure compatibility with your substrate – hardwoods, softwoods, MDF, fabric, or leather all require specific formulations
• Base type: Water-based stains offer quick drying and easy cleanup, whilst oil-based products provide deeper penetration and richer colour
• Application location: Interior stains differ from exterior formulations which include UV protection and weather resistance
• Desired finish: Consider whether you want transparent, semi-transparent, or opaque coverage
• Colour matching: Some projects require precise colour matching – concentrated dyes offer greater flexibility for custom blending
• Application method: MyToolShed.co.uk stocks appropriate applicators including brushes, cloths, and pads for different product types
• Topcoat compatibility: Ensure your chosen stain works with your intended sealer, varnish, or lacquer

Safety Information

Always work in well-ventilated areas when using stains and dyes, particularly with solvent-based products. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves and safety glasses. Keep products away from heat sources and naked flames, and store in a cool, dry place away from children and pets. Dispose of used cloths safely as oil-soaked rags can spontaneously combust. Always read manufacturer instructions and safety data sheets before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between wood stain and wood dye?

Wood stain typically contains pigments that sit on the surface and in the grain, whilst wood dye contains smaller molecules that penetrate deeper into the timber. Dyes provide more transparent, even colour but offer less hiding power for imperfections compared to stains.

Can I apply stain over existing varnish?

No, stains must penetrate the wood to work effectively. You'll need to strip or sand back to bare wood before applying stain. Gel stains are an exception and can sometimes be applied over existing finishes.

How long should wood stain dry before applying a topcoat?

Drying times vary by product type. Water-based stains typically dry within 2-4 hours, whilst oil-based stains may require 24-48 hours. Always check manufacturer guidelines before applying sealers or topcoats.