Re: Stains and dyes

Posted by Jamie on Feb 6, 2006

I've had good luck recently with water-based aniline dyes. Going for the look shown in the book Kayaks You Can Build by Ted moores and Greg Rossel, I used a dark green stain on the deck. Their method of staining is very effective... and leaves the surface perfectly ready to bond with epoxy.

Before assembly, the section of the boat is stained the desired color so that when panel joints are scarfed/joined, the glue does not repel stain and make seems discolored.

First, raise the grain slightly with a damp sponge or mist bottle. Sand with fine grit to smooth and stabilize the surface... you're prepping it for finish.

The stain is set down in two coats or more, sanding lightly by hand between coats with 280 grit or finer. The first coat should be diluted to half strength; it will basically serve to raise the grain before sanding to further stabilize the surface. Keep a wet edge with the dye, and a wet, evenly saturated surface. This will mimimize lap streaks and darker puddles.

Let it dry 24 hours and give it a final cleanup with a fine scotchbrite or equivalent. Then, once the surface of the dye has set, apply a coat of epoxy with light, consistent brush strokes, doing your best to minimize disturbance of the dye beneath.

Because the dye is sealed in under the glass, it should keep pretty well. Just be sure the varnish is fully uv protectant...

In Response to: Stains and dyes by James Eager on Feb 2, 2006

Replies:

• Re: Stains and dyes by Jamie on Feb 6, 2006