Trying to work out how to finish some red oak for a bow case. The initial idea of just spraying lacquer had to be discarded when some parts had to be remade and now don't match. And I decided I want ebony.
Mixed up some vinegar and steel wool ebonizing solution and liked the effect save for the light colored grain which won't change colour even if I use a stiff brush to get the stain in deeply.
Tried using Kiwi black shoe polish and liked the effect --- until I sprayed Valspar gloss lacquer --- looks like plastic w/ the finish sitting on top.
I like the appearance of the lacquer on the ebonized wood save for the light grain pores. Is there something else I should try? Or accept them? Or should I try spraying the lacquer again on a second test piece?
A rephrasing: Simplest ebony stain for red oak under lacquer?