[OP]
Contributor
Well the problem with water based dyes is the surface tension of the water doesn't allow it to seep into pores of the wood. Has anyone tried reducing the surface tension of the water by mixing a small amount of liquid soap to the dye ? I may try that tonight and see the results I get.
"The element of competition has never worried me, because from the start, I suppose I realized wood contains so much inspiration and beauty and rhythm that if used properly it would result in an individual and unique object." - James Krenov
What you do speaks so loud, I cannot hear what you say. -R. W. Emerson
Member
I have thought of it, but never did. (soap that is)
I generally use a foam brush and use bruch action to break the tension.
Member
I havn't done this. The reports I have seen were mixed as to the effectiveness. I assume you are talking about dye on oak or ash. The problem isn't just surface tension though I suppose that is involved, it has to do with the makeup of the inside of pores. There is a special line of dyes formulated to address this problem. It is Artiporin, and is sold at Highland Hardware.
www.highlandhardware.com
An other solution is to seal the dye with a wash coat of dewaxed shellac or thinned finish, and then apply a pigmented wiping stain to lodge in the pores. By varying the color of the wiping stain so very rich looks can be obtained as well.
Member
Try putting a little alcohol in the dye. This will relieve the surface tension and should help it color the pores.
Rob Millard
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