So i built a console out of White Oak Plywood, and White Oak Hardwood. Sanded everything to 220grit.
I decided to use General Finishes Water Based Stain - Espresso
Then I used a rag and brushed the stain on with the grain of the wood. Since the cabinet was all built, going with the grain on the insides of the cabinet was tough. Even on the sides of the outside of the console. getting to the very top and bottom. No matter how careful i was I got buffing marks. The stain was very even but you could see hazy marks where i made my rag strokes. And on the corners to get out the excess stain i had to go across the grain and you could see that stroke as well.
As i said, the stain was perfectly even, and the amount of stain used and wiped off was even, but you could see the marks.
I then did another coat of stain. This time i brushed it on, and then went back with a foam brush and lightly went back over it, and that took away the "marks." Only problem being that now my furniture piece is darker than I wanted.
Also I only had this problem with the plywood. No rag marks or issues on all the hardwood pieces on the piece.
So is this common? Did i experience this due to using a water based stain, instead of using an oil based? Do I need to use a pre stain conditioner first when using plywood?
Thanks
Heres a pic of it finished after 2 coats. It has adjustable pin hole shelves. Its going to hold their TV and Audio Equipment.
console.jpg