Stain or Varnish

Hi, nearing completion of futon (featured in Aus woodsmith #38) was wondering what would look best between stain or varnish. I think i want to stain it, i want a deep colour like this Big Tree Big Daddy Futons, also after i stain should i use a high gloss varnish. i have only ever stained before and that was a meatsafe, i used wattyl stain and varnish. Please reccomend products to use that are avaliable at local K & D mitre 10 and bunnings etc.
thanks
Jeremy

Take a look at this for a finish. Good luck with your project.

thanks for that, i like the high gloss, thats what i would like, but can you stain it before then use what you used

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Originally Posted by thebullfrog07

thanks for that, i like the high gloss, thats what i would like, but can you stain it before then use what you used

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Yes. Be sure to read the directions on the stain to make certain it can be used under water-based topcoats. Most can. If not, lay down a seal coat of de-waxed shallac between the stain and the topcoat. Be sure to let the stain cure out well before starting the next finish.

i got Wattyl Traditional Craftsman finish Contemporary Maple in a 500mL tin and Wattyl Estapol Gloss in a 1 Litre tin. These two products cost me a total of $59.21 ($36.23 for the stain and $22.98 for the varnish).

thanks for help all