Adding color to water-based poly.

[Mike Monroe]

Anyone ever try adding some color to water-based poly? Does this technique add depth to the finish or just obscure what's underneath? I'm wondering if this is possible and what colorant one would use. Powdered dye perhaps?

I'm currently finishing a mahogany blanket chest. So far I've stained with Early American Cherry water-based dye, one coat 2 lb. cut of de-waxed amber shellac, a quick wipe on and wipe off of Englich Walnut oil based stain to give the pores a little color. Next coat will be one or two coats of 2 lb. blonde shellac, then 2-3 coats of Varathane water-based poly. Finishing room is about 60 degrees, but I might boost that temperature temporarily with a propane heater.

[Jamie Buxton]

One way is to add anilyne dye to the varnish. I like the Transtint (fluid) from Homestead Finishing. You can buy it direct from them, or from Woodcraft.