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I picked up this retro MCM coffee table with a tiled top and I’ve stared sanding it back and plan on retiling the top, something similar to the above. I’m just not sure what stain and varnish to use. I’d like to go lighter than the original varnish, we do have a timber kitchen and a lot of different coloured timber’s in our house. I’m not sure though if a clear varnish would be too light. Any suggestions?
Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @NicoleDIY. It's brilliant to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about staining timber.
When it comes to stain and varnish selection, it really does come down to personal preference, just like choosing wall colours. A clear varnish won’t dramatically change the timber’s natural tone. If you go with an oil-based varnish, it will tend to add a warmer, golden hue. A water-based varnish, on the other hand, will usually keep the timber close to its raw colour. If you’re happy with how it looks sanded back, you could simply seal it with a clear water-based varnish to protect it.
If you’d like it darker, you’ll need to apply a stain first, then varnish over the top. How much darker you go is entirely up to you. A good approach is to bring inspiration photos into the store, and our paint experts can show you sample boards of stains on timber to help you visualise the end result. This way, you can match your table more closely to your kitchen and other timbers in your home. Ultimately, what looks best is a very individual choice. What I might think suits the piece, you may not, so it’s worth taking the time to explore samples until you find the finish that feels right to you.
You might liketo pickup a couple of different stains and to a test section in an inconspicuous location under the table.
Please let me know if you have any questions.
Mitchell
