Because of its natural ability to resist decay, mildew and insects, cedar may be finished in a variety of ways. Exterior cedar furniture left untreated typically develops a silver-gray patina as it weathers over time. Although cedar is a softwood like pine, it also consumes stain greater than pine, particularly when treated with a pre-stain wood conditioner. Indoor and outdoor cedar furniture are stained exactly the exact same manner. However, clear coat polyurethane, which gives the wood a shiny, smooth finish, should only be applied on indoor furniture. Outside furniture is finished with a wood sealer to protect against moisture.
Use medium-grit sandpaper to sand the furniture. Rub back and forth, following the grain of the wood. Sand the whole surface, then follow up with the fine-grit sandpaper, utilizing the exact same method.
Vacuum or use a stiff brush to remove all of loose and powder debris. Rub all surfaces down with tack cloth or a damp cloth to remove any remaining fine powder.
Use the pre-stain with the foam brush to assist the stain penetrate more evenly. Cover the wood with a thin coat of pre-stain and then let it dry according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Wear gloves to avoid staining your fingers. Open the can of stain and mix thoroughly with a stir stick, scraping across the bottom to make sure the color is mixed thoroughly.
Dip the natural bristle brush or a staining rag to the stain and then use the color to the wood. Brush or rub the stain, following the grain of the wood. Cover the whole piece with one coat of stain.
Let the stain remain on the wood for 5 to 15 minutes or as the producer instructs on the tag. Do not exceed the maximum recommended time.
Wipe away any excess stain with a clean rag. Wipe with the grain of this wood.
Allow the first coat to dry according to the stain’s directions. Assess the color of the wood. Apply a second coat of stain if the color is too light.
Allow the wood to dry overnight. Use the artificial bristle brush to apply a coat of clear-coat polyurethane or polyurethane to the furniture. Allow the first coat to dry according to the directions. Lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper if the urethane or sealer’s maker’s directions call for it and apply a second coat.