Choosing a stain color and transparency can be daunting. The original color of the wood you're staining impacts the final color, and testing multiple stains can quickly become tedious. If you've wondered which shade range will pair best with the wood you're staining, this guide will help you quickly choose complimenting colors and save hours of swatch testing time.

Before discussing the common wood types and their ideal stain match, let's briefly discuss the different types of wood stains and how they penetrate them. Knowing this will help you understand how stain colors will look once dried.

• Oil-based Stain. Oil-based stains are among the more durable stains because the color penetrates deeper into the wood, leading to richer color and fewer touch-ups over time. Because of how deeply this stain penetrates the wood, the color and age of the wood will have a big impact on the stain color.
• Water-Based Stain. If you want faster drying times and lower odor, a water-based stain is best. Water-based stains deliver a subtle, more natural wood look than oil-based stains.
• Gel Stain. Gel Stains are an excellent choice for woods like pine that don't absorb stains evenly. Rather than penetrate the wood, gel stains sit on top of the wood like paint, so the color on the can will not be affected by the type of wood you're staining. This is also a non-drip stain, making it great for staining vertical surfaces like cabinets.
• Lacquer-based Stain. Like gel stains, lacquer-based stains already contain a wood tint that sits on top of the wood, so the color will not change due to wood penetration. Lacquer-based stains are also formulated with a protective finish, making them an easy, one-step staining option.

Wood grain is vital in how oil- and water-based stains penetrate and color your project. Every piece of wood contains a unique network of pores acting as channels, determining how deeply stains penetrate the wood. The size and pattern of these pores, commonly called grain, also influence what each wood type is best suited for.

Open-grain woods like oak and ash feature larger pores that readily accept stain, making them ideal for rich, traditional finishes. In contrast, closed-grain woods like maple and cherry have tighter, less visible pores that resist stain absorption. While these woods might need extra preparation for staining, their tight grain makes them excellent choices for areas exposed to moisture or projects demanding a clean, modern aesthetic.

When it comes to working with closed grain wood types and wood types that accept stain inconsistently, like pine, there are a few techniques you can use to get an even stain:

• Water-popping. Water-popping, or "raising the grain," involves lightly misting the wood surface with water before staining. This process raises the wood grain by causing the wood fibers to swell and stand up. Once dry, these raised fibers create more surface area for the stain to grip for a deeper, more uniform color absorption.
• Stain Conditioner. Pre-stain conditioner acts like a primer for your wood. It partially seals the wood's pores, preventing the stain from penetrating too deeply in some areas while barely touching others. This works well for soft woods like pine that are prone to blotching because the conditioner evens out the wood's absorption rate.
• Gel Stain. As previously mentioned, gel stains sit on the surface due to their thicker consistency, making them ideal for woods that typically stain unevenly. It's particularly effective on pine, maple, and cherry, where traditional stains might create a blotchy appearance.

Like paint, the wood stain color you choose has psychological meaning. Understanding the psychological impact of different wood tones can help you create the perfect atmosphere, from a cozy family room to a classy home office. Consider these popular stain colors and how they influence the mood in your space.

• Dark Walnut creates an air of sophistication while adding visual weight to a space, perfect for formal dining rooms or executive offices.
• Golden Oak is a warm, honey-colored finish that welcomes natural light and creates an inviting atmosphere that makes spaces feel expansive and approachable.
• Ebony is a bold, dramatic finish that delivers a contemporary edge, making a strong statement while providing striking contrast in modern interiors.
• Natural, clear finishes emphasize the wood's authentic character and organic beauty, creating a connection to nature that works well in casual living spaces.

Transform your wood surfaces with confidence using the perfect stain for your project. Visit your neighborhood Sherwin-Williams, where our knowledgeable associates can help you select the ideal stain color and type for your specific wood. From pre-stain conditioners to stains and finishing products, we have everything you need to achieve beautiful, lasting results.