To tint oil-based polyurethanes, use oil-based pigments or universal tints. Start by adding a small amount of tint to the polyurethane, stir well, and test the color on a small area before applying it to the entire surface. Repeat until the desired color is achieved.
While clear oil-based polyurethane is a common choice, tinted oil-based polyurethane can add color and character to wood.
In this article, we’ll provide our step-by-step process for mixing tint with oil-based polyurethane and applying it to a wood surface.
Before starting the project, gather all necessary materials and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Materials | Applies polyurethane to the surface |
|---|---|
| Oil-based polyurethane | Finishing solution |
| Tint | Adds color to polyurethane |
| Stirring stick | Mixes polyurethane and tint |
| Paintbrush or roller | Applies polyurethane to the surface |
| Sandpaper | Prepares surface for polyurethane |
| Cleaner | Cleans surface before application |
Achieving a smooth and even finish on a wood surface is crucial to ensuring the best possible outcome for your project.
Sand the wood surface to smooth out imperfections and remove any old finish.
Sanding helps to create a uniform surface for the tinted polyurethane to adhere to.
It also removes any scratches, gouges, or nicks, creating a smooth surface for applying the tinted polyurethane.
Clean the wood surface with a suitable cleaner to remove dirt, dust, or grease.
Dirt, dust, and grease can all prevent the tinted polyurethane from adhering properly to the wood surface.
Therefore, removing all traces of dirt, dust, and grease is important before applying the tinted polyurethane.
After sanding, wipe the surface with mineral spirit to clear any fragments.
Allow the surface to dry completely before proceeding. Any moisture on the wood surface can cause problems applying the tinted polyurethane.
Once the wood surface is properly prepared, the next step is to mix the tint with the polyurethane.
Tinting involves adding a coloring agent to the finishing solution to create a custom color.
Stir the polyurethane with a stirring stick to ensure it is well-mixed.
This ensures that the polyurethane has a consistent viscosity, which is necessary for the tint to mix properly with the polyurethane.
Add the tint to the polyurethane, stirring constantly, one drop at a time.
Adding the tint gradually allows you to achieve the desired color without over-saturating the mixture.
Stirring constantly while adding the tint ensures the coloring agent is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
Continue adding the tint until the desired color is achieved.
The amount of tint required to achieve the desired color may vary depending on the concentration and the intensity of the desired color.
Test the color by applying a small amount of tinted polyurethane to scrap wood.
This allows you to ensure the tint is the correct color and intensity before applying it to your project. Adjust the tint as needed to achieve the desired color.
Now that the tint has been properly mixed with the polyurethane, it’s time to apply it to the wood surface.
This process involves carefully applying the tinted polyurethane to the wood surface to create an even and uniform finish.
Dip a paintbrush or roller into the tinted polyurethane and apply it to the wood surface, working in the direction of the wood grain.
This ensures that the tinted polyurethane is applied evenly and does not leave streaks or marks on the surface.
Working toward the wood grain helps ensure the finish has a consistent appearance.
Apply a thin, even coat of the tinted polyurethane to the entire surface. This ensures the tint is evenly distributed throughout the finish, resulting in a consistent color.
Applying too much polyurethane at once can cause drips, bubbles, and unevenness, ruining the finish.
After you put the colored polyurethane, you need to let it dry well to get a smooth and even finish.
Polyurethane is a substance that dries slowly and needs time to cure. This makes the polyurethane stick to the wood surface and makes a protective layer.
Wait for the first coat of colored polyurethane to dry fully. Usually, it takes about 24-48 hours.
The drying time is different depending on how humid, hot, and airy it is.
When dry, sand the surface with fine sandpaper to make it smooth and ready for the next coat.
Sanding the surface between coats makes the finish smooth and even.
It gets rid of any bumps, drops, or bubbles that may have happened when you put in the polyurethane.
Sanding also makes the surface a little rough, which makes the next coat of polyurethane stick better.
The number of coats you need depends on what you like and how much protection you need for the wood surface.
Usually, two to three coats of polyurethane are enough for most projects.
But you may need more coats for busy places or outdoor projects.
Repeat applying, drying, and sanding until the desired level of protection and color is achieved.
After completing the desired number of coats of tinted polyurethane, it is time to finish the project.
Sanding the surface with fine-grit sandpaper can achieve a smooth and even finish. Although this is optional as it depends on the finish you’re looking for.
Clean the surface with a cleaner to remove any dust or debris.
Use a lint-free cloth or tack cloth to wipe the surface clean. Ensure that the surface is completely clean and dry before proceeding.
Apply a clear coat of oil-based polyurethane to protect the surface and enhance its shine.
The clear coat of polyurethane provides an extra layer of protection to the tinted polyurethane and the wood surface. It also enhances the shine and depth of the color.
Proper disposal of all materials and tools used in the project is an essential step that should not be overlooked.
When the project is complete, the tools and brushes used to apply the tinted polyurethane will likely have a buildup of the mixture that could cause the bristles to stick together and become unusable.
Failing to clean them properly could also result in the polyurethane mixture hardening and becoming difficult to remove later.
Tinting polyurethane is a great way to achieve a custom color on your wood surface.
Mixing requires patience and care, adding tint one drop at a time until the desired color is achieved.
It’s worth noting that tinting differs from toning and shading in paint finishes.
Tint refers to adding color to a clear substance, toning involves adding a small amount of color to an already colored substance, and shading refers to adding black or white to a color to make it darker or lighter.
You can consider tinting polyurethane when looking for a specific color or wanting to match a wood surface to a specific color scheme.
Remember, the wood grain will still show through the tinted polyurethane, creating a unique and natural look.
With proper preparation and application techniques, tinting polyurethane can provide a beautiful and long-lasting finish on your wood surface.
It is not recommended to tint polyurethane with food coloring as it is not formulated for use in polyurethane and may not provide an even or durable finish. It is best to use oil-based pigments or universal tints designed for use with polyurethane to achieve the desired color.
Yes, you can tint a polyurethane clear coat with oil-based pigments or universal tints designed for use with polyurethane. Tinting a clear coat allows you to add color while maintaining the finish’s clarity. Be sure to test the tinted clear coat on a small area before applying it to the entire surface.
Yes, you can mix mica powder with polyurethane to create a metallic or pearlescent finish. Add a small amount of mica powder to the polyurethane, stir well, and test the color on a small area before applying it to the entire surface. Mica powder is a popular additive for creating unique finishes in woodworking and DIY projects.
