How to re-stain a plywood desk?

ChrisA

Hi everyone,I have a plywood desk I wanted to re stain as the previous owner did a rough job. 

Can I give it a good sand to remove the old stain? m

Also, I have read about pre stain conditioner (Miniwax) and Gel Stains to get the best result .... but they don't seem to be available in Bunnings or anywhere else. Does anybody know if they are needed or where I might get them?

Regards Chris

Chris

MitchellMc

Hi @ChrisA,

Sanding would be the best method to remove the stain. Start with a coarser grit, like 120-grit, to remove the top layer of timber and then progress to 240-grit. Be aware that stains are penetrative, so you might need to remove a significant amount of timber to get the stain out. This can be a problem with plywood as it is constructed of several thin layers of timber glued together. If the stain has penetrated deeply, you might not be able to remove it as you'll sand through the first thin layer of timber.

Are you looking to stain a lighter or darker colour?

Gel stains are particularly popular overseas in places like America. I'm unaware of where you could get them over here. In saying that, you can still get very good results from the available stains. Perhaps if you were able to show us some inspiration images of what you'd like to achieve, our helpful members can provide advice on how you could do so with available products.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell