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Top-Rated Wood Stains for Crafting and Small Projects

You've spent hours meticulously sanding your DIY project, only to watch a heavy stain turn your hard work into a blotchy, muddy disaster. It's incredibly frustrating when your professional touch looks like a ruined weekend, but you can achieve a glass-smooth finish by switching to stains specifically formulated for small-scale crafts. You might be shocked to find that some of the most effective staining tools are currently sitting right in your kitchen pantry.

Top-Rated Wood Stains for Crafting and Small Projects
Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain Applicator (Walnut)

Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain Applicator (Walnut)

  1. Integrated Applicator: Built-in foam sponge for a mess-free, precision application.
  2. Base Formula: Water-based for low odor and easy soap and water cleanup.
  3. Drying Time: Dries to the touch in approximately 1 hour.
  4. Coverage Capacity: Provides approximately 50 square feet of coverage per 4 oz bottle.
  5. Best for: Small wood craft projects, DIY accents, and detailed trim work.

DecoArt Americana Walnut Gel Stain

DecoArt Americana Walnut Gel Stain

  1. Formulation: Water-based gel.
  2. Container Size: 2-ounce (59 ml) bottle.
  3. Consistency: Thick, non-drip formula.
  4. Cleanup Method: Soap and water.
  5. Best for: Small-scale wood crafts, intricate DIY projects, and indoor home decor.

COATEZ Oil-Based Interior Wood Stain

COATEZ Oil-Based Interior Wood Stain

  1. Formula Type: Water-based, non-toxic, and low-odor.
  2. Drying Time: Fast-acting (approximately 1-2 hours per coat).
  3. VOC Content: Low VOC for safe indoor application.
  4. Container Volume: 8.5 fl oz (250 ml), ideal for small-scale projects.
  5. Best for: Intricate wooden crafts, DIY décor, and indoor furniture restoration.

5-Piece Professional Paint and Stain Brush Set

5-Piece Professional Paint and Stain Brush Set

  1. Quantity and Value: 6-piece professional utility brush set.
  2. Bristle Material: High-quality synthetic nylon for smooth, streak-free application.
  3. Size Variety: Includes three versatile widths (1.5 inch, 2 inch, and 2.5 inch).
  4. Construction Durability: Stainless steel ferrules and ergonomic, easy-to-clean plastic handles.
  5. Best for: Applying stains, varnishes, and chalk paint to small-scale furniture and DIY craft projects.

FolkArt Antiquing Medium Paint, 2 oz

FolkArt Antiquing Medium Paint, 2 oz

  1. Product Size: 2 fl oz (59 ml).
  2. Base Formula: Water-based and non-toxic.
  3. Cleanup Method: Simple soap and water cleanup while wet.
  4. Compatible Surfaces: Wood, plaster, terracotta, and paper mache.
  5. Best for: adding a vintage, aged, or distressed finish to small-scale craft projects.

Outdoor Furniture Touch-Up Pens (8 Colors)

Outdoor Furniture Touch-Up Pens (8 Colors)

  1. Composition: Water-based, eco-friendly formula with low odor and non-toxic ingredients.
  2. Container Volume: 280ml (approximately 9.5 fl oz) per bottle.
  3. Drying Time: Touch dry in 30–60 minutes and fully cured within 2–4 hours.
  4. Application Versatility: Suitable for both indoor and outdoor surfaces with built-in UV and weather resistance.
  5. Best for: Detailed DIY wood crafts, small furniture upcycling, and decorative wooden ornaments.

Minwax Wood Finishing Cloths (Natural)

Minwax Wood Finishing Cloths (Natural)

  1. Application Method: Pre-moistened, wipe-on cloths requiring no brushes or trays.
  2. Product Formula: Combined wood stain and protective topcoat in one step.
  3. Drying Time: Fast-acting formula that dries to the touch in approximately 1 hour.
  4. Cleanup Requirements: Water-based for easy removal with soap and water.
  5. Best for: Small craft projects, indoor furniture touch-ups, and DIY wood decor.

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer and Finish (16 oz)

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer and Finish (16 oz)

  1. Product Volume: 16-ounce bottle.
  2. Formula Composition: Water-based and non-toxic formula.
  3. Versatile Functionality: 3-in-1 glue, sealer, and finish.
  4. Drying and Appearance: Quick-drying with a clear, gloss finish.
  5. Best for: Sealing and protecting stained wood surfaces and decoupage crafts.

Apple Barrel Matte Acrylic Paint (2 oz), Toasted Almond

Apple Barrel Matte Acrylic Paint (2 oz), Toasted Almond

  1. Bottle size: 2 fl oz.
  2. Surface finish: Soft matte finish.
  3. Formula type: Water-based and AP-certified non-toxic.
  4. Compatible surfaces: Wood, terra cotta, plaster, and canvas.
  5. Best for: Small wood crafts and decorative DIY detailing.

Keda 5-Color Aniline Wood Dye Kit

Keda 5-Color Aniline Wood Dye Kit

  1. Concentrated Yield: 5 packets produce up to 5 quarts of liquid stain.
  2. Primary Color Kit: Includes 5 versatile colors (Black, Brown, Blue, Red, and Yellow).
  3. Solvent Compatibility: Mixes with both water and isopropyl alcohol.
  4. Formula Composition: Non-toxic, eco-friendly, and VOC-free wood dye powder.
  5. Best for: Creating custom, vibrant wood tones for furniture and intricate craft projects.

SEISSO Wood Furniture Repair Kit

SEISSO Wood Furniture Repair Kit

  1. Comprehensive Kit Pieces: 17 total items including 8 markers, 8 wax sticks, and 1 sharpener.
  2. Color Selection: 8 unique wood shades including Maple, Oak, Cherry, Walnut, Mahogany, Black, Grey, and White.
  3. Drying Speed: Instant-dry formula that is waterproof and smudge-proof once applied.
  4. Repair Versatility: Dual-action system designed for covering surface scuffs and filling deeper gouges or cracks.
  5. Best for: High-detail wood craft restoration and touching up small DIY projects.

Tim Holtz Distress Stain 3-Pack - Antique Linen, Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain

Tim Holtz Distress Stain 3-Pack - Antique Linen, Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain

  1. Formulation: Water-based, reactive fluid dye.
  2. Container Size: 1.9 fl oz (56 ml) bottle.
  3. Application Method: Built-in spring-loaded dabber top for controlled, direct-to-surface application.
  4. Safety Profile: Acid-free and non-toxic.
  5. Best for: Creating aged, vintage effects on small wood crafts, paper, and mixed media projects.

SamaN Interior Water-Based Wood Stain

SamaN Interior Water-Based Wood Stain

  1. VOC Content: Low VOC and eco-friendly formula.
  2. Safety Rating: Non-toxic and virtually odorless for indoor use.
  3. Application Process: One-coat coverage with no wood conditioner required.
  4. Clean-up Method: Easy soap and water cleanup.
  5. Best for: Small-scale wood crafts, DIY indoor furniture, and home decor projects.

CONDA 12-Piece Artist Paint Brush Set

CONDA 12-Piece Artist Paint Brush Set

  1. Nylon Bristle Composition: High-quality, soft synthetic fibers designed to hold and release stain evenly without leaving heavy brush marks.
  2. Comprehensive 10-Piece Variety: A full assortment of shapes including flat, round, filbert, and liner tips to handle different craft scales.
  3. Reinforced Nickel Ferrules: Double-crimped, rust-resistant connectors that ensure bristles stay attached and do not shed into your wood finish.
  4. Ergonomic Short Handles: Crafted for precision and comfort, providing maximum control when applying stains to small or intricate wooden surfaces.
  5. Best for Intricate Detailing: Ideal for applying wood stain, glazes, or fine finishes to small-scale craft projects, wooden models, and detailed trim work.

Pro Grade 10-Piece Bristle Paintbrush Set

Pro Grade 10-Piece Bristle Paintbrush Set

  1. Bristle Composition: 100% natural white China bristles.
  2. Package Quantity: 5-piece variety pack.
  3. Size Range: 1 inch to 3 inches in width.
  4. Handle Material: Smooth, lightweight hardwood.
  5. Best for: Applying oil-based stains and varnishes to detailed wood craft projects.

Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain Applicator (Walnut)

Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain Applicator (Walnut)

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You've finally found the most incredible solution for your DIY projects with this Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain, which offers the absolute best way to achieve a rich walnut finish without the typical cleanup headache. Honestly, you're going to love how the integrated foam applicator eliminates the need for messy brushes, while the advanced water-based, low-VOC formula ensures a fast-drying time of just one hour so you can finish your masterpiece in record time. Because this premium stain features a high-density pigment suspension, you get the most vibrant color saturation that highlights natural wood grains with unparalleled clarity. Plus, the no-drip delivery system means you can say goodbye to accidental spills on your workspace, making it the superior choice for detailed craft work where precision is everything. You simply squeeze, swipe, and admire the most flawless results imaginable, then easily wash up with just soap and water.

DecoArt Americana Walnut Gel Stain

DecoArt Americana Walnut Gel Stain

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Tired of your DIY projects looking like a runny, blotchy mess that ruins hours of hard work? You're standing there with a dripping brush, watching thin liquid soak unevenly into your wood and staining your tabletop instead of your craft. DecoArt Americana Gel Stain fixes the chaos by offering a thick, non-drip consistency that gives you total control over every stroke. This high-pigment formula delivers a rich walnut finish in a single pass, while the water-based base makes cleanup a breeze. No more drips. No more blotches. Just deep, professional color. Your crafts finally look high-end.

COATEZ Oil-Based Interior Wood Stain

COATEZ Oil-Based Interior Wood Stain

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Tired of your DIY projects looking dull or dealing with messy, foul-smelling stains that take forever to dry? You deserve a better way to bring your creative visions to life, and COATEZ Wood Stain is the ultimate fix for your crafting frustrations. Its fast-drying, water-based formula means you can achieve professional-grade, vibrant colors in record time without the headache of toxic fumes or complex cleanups. Because it's low-odor and easy to apply with just a brush or cloth, you can finally stain your favorite furniture pieces or small crafts right at your kitchen table without the stress. Stop settling for lackluster finishes and give your wood the rich, durable protection it needs to truly stand out. Transform your next project and grab your bottle now!

5-Piece Professional Paint and Stain Brush Set

5-Piece Professional Paint and Stain Brush Set

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Ever feel like your DIY projects look a bit... amateur? You pour your heart into a piece, only for a streaky, uneven finish to ruin the vibe. Stop settling for blotchy wood. This premium craft stain transforms your work instantly. Its fast-penetrating formula means you get rich, deep color that highlights the natural grain instead of hiding it. No toxic fumes. No endless drying times. Just professional results. Swipe it on. Let it dry. Be the pro. Your crafts finally look the part.

FolkArt Antiquing Medium Paint, 2 oz

FolkArt Antiquing Medium Paint, 2 oz

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Tired of your DIY projects looking like a middle school shop class reject because the raw wood lacks that cozy, "found it at an antique fair" character? Stop stressing over messy, oil-based stains that take ages to dry and give FolkArt Antiquing Medium a whirl to transform your pieces with zero fuss. To nail that vintage aesthetic, simply brush the medium over your project's surface, then grab a soft cloth and wipe away the excess to reveal a gorgeous, aged patina that highlights every detail of the wood grain. Since this formula is water-based and non-toxic, you can skip the harsh chemical smells and enjoy a breezy cleanup with just soap and water, while its high-pigment concentration ensures you get a rich, professional-grade finish that won't fade or streak as it sets.

Outdoor Furniture Touch-Up Pens (8 Colors)

Outdoor Furniture Touch-Up Pens (8 Colors)

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Tired of those harsh chemical odors and messy cleanups that turn your DIY craft time into a headache? You deserve a wood stain that works as hard as your imagination, and that's where Ninesung comes in with a game-changing solution. Our water-based formula isn't just low-odor and non-toxic for your peace of mind; it dries in a flash and offers twelve vibrant, weather-resistant pigments that make your indoor and outdoor projects pop without the long wait. Since it's incredibly easy to apply and cleans up with just soap and water, you'll spend less time scrubbing brushes and more time admiring your professional-grade finish. Stop settling for dull, smelly finishes and grab your Ninesung wood stain set now!

Minwax Wood Finishing Cloths (Natural)

Minwax Wood Finishing Cloths (Natural)

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Stop stressing over messy brushes and drippy cans that turn your quick craft projects into a giant headache. These Minwax Finishing Cloths are your secret weapon for a professional look without the usual shop drama. Just pop open the resealable pack, grab a pre-moistened cloth, and wipe it directly onto your sanded wood surface following the grain. Let the stain penetrate for about five minutes, then use a clean rag to buff away any excess; because it's a high-performance water-based formula, you'll get rich color and a protective topcoat all in one go, meaning you can skip the extra sealing step entirely. You'll love how the fast-drying tech lets you finish a piece in just an hour, while the easy soap-and-water cleanup means you're back to your life instead of scrubbing your hands raw.

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer and Finish (16 oz)

Mod Podge Gloss Waterbase Sealer and Finish (16 oz)

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Struggling to get that rich, professional-grade finish on your DIY wood projects without the headache of oily messes and harsh chemical smells? This premium craft wood stain is the game-changer you've been looking for, featuring a water-based formula that ensures a stress-free application and a snap-fast cleanup with just simple soap and water. You'll love how the deep-penetrating pigments highlight the natural beauty of the grain while providing a durable, protective seal that keeps your handmade treasures looking fresh for years. Because it dries in a flash, you can stop waiting around and start showing off your stunning creations to the world right away. Grab yours today and transform your wood crafts instantly!

Apple Barrel Matte Acrylic Paint (2 oz), Toasted Almond

Apple Barrel Matte Acrylic Paint (2 oz), Toasted Almond

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Ever finish a wood project only to realize it looks a bit... unfinished? We've all been there. You want that high-end, rustic look without the oily mess or the twenty-four-hour wait time. This water-based craft stain is your secret weapon. You simply brush it on, and the deep-penetrating pigments instantly highlight the natural grain for a professional finish. It dries fast, meaning you can move from staining to displaying in under an hour. No harsh fumes. No sticky residue. Just beautiful wood. Transform your crafts. Save your time. Get staining.

Keda 5-Color Aniline Wood Dye Kit

Keda 5-Color Aniline Wood Dye Kit

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Ever feel like those thick, store-bought stains just turn your hard-won craft projects into a muddy mess that hides the wood's natural soul? You've spent hours sanding and shaping, only to have a generic finish flatten the beauty of your masterpiece. Keda Dye fixes this by offering highly concentrated aniline powders that soak deep into the fibers rather than sitting on the surface, ensuring your wood grain pops with breathtaking, professional clarity. Because these dyes are water or alcohol soluble, you gain total control over color intensity and custom blending, allowing you to create vibrant, boutique hues that premixed cans simply can't match. No more dull spots. No more hidden grain. Just pure, vivid brilliance. Your crafts deserve the upgrade.

SEISSO Wood Furniture Repair Kit

SEISSO Wood Furniture Repair Kit

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Tired of seeing those annoying scratches and scuffs ruin your favorite DIY wood projects? We've all been there, but the SEISSO Furniture Repair Kit is the ultimate fix to bring your crafts back to life without the hassle of traditional messy stains. With eight versatile, custom colors and fast-drying, waterproof ink, you can effortlessly match any wood tone and hide imperfections in seconds for a professional, smudge-free finish. Whether you are touching up a vintage find or perfecting a brand-new masterpiece, these easy-to-use markers and wax sticks give you total control over your repairs so your handiwork always looks flawless. Stop stressing over nicks and start showing off your beautiful creations. Grab your kit now!

Tim Holtz Distress Stain 3-Pack - Antique Linen, Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain

Tim Holtz Distress Stain 3-Pack - Antique Linen, Vintage Photo, Walnut Stain

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Tired of those clunky, thick wood stains turning your delicate craft projects into a globby, uneven mess? You can finally ditch the frustration with this fluid "magic in a bottle" that makes achieving a perfect vintage finish a total breeze. To transform your wood pieces, just give the bottle a good shake, press the built-in sponge applicator directly onto your surface, and swipe across for instant, vibrant coverage that won't hide the natural grain. Because the formula is water-reactive, you can easily mist it with a sprayer to blend custom gradients or create cool distressed droplets, giving you the professional artistic control you've been craving. The fast-drying, fluid consistency means no more waiting hours for tacky surfaces to set, so you can get straight to layering your way to a masterpiece that looks like a weathered heirloom.

SamaN Interior Water-Based Wood Stain

SamaN Interior Water-Based Wood Stain

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Tired of your craft projects looking like a splotchy mess or smelling up your entire house just to get that perfect rustic vibe? We've all been there, but SamaN Interior Water-Based Wood Stain is about to become your new best friend because it's totally odorless and safe for indoor crafting marathons. To get that professional finish without the headache, simply sand your wood smooth, apply the stain with the included sponge or a clean rag, and wipe away the excess-no wood conditioner or fancy equipment required. Because it's super-pigmented, you get rich, vibrant color in just one coat, and since it's a water-based formula, you can ditch the harsh chemicals and clean up your workspace with just a little soap and water. It's the ultimate low-fuss way to make your DIY projects pop while keeping your lungs and your living room happy.

CONDA 12-Piece Artist Paint Brush Set

CONDA 12-Piece Artist Paint Brush Set

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When you're looking to transform your raw wood projects into the most breathtaking masterpieces, this premium water-based stain is the ultimate game-changer you've been waiting for. You'll appreciate how the high-density pigment formula penetrates deep into the wood fibers, which means you get an unrivaled, rich color saturation that highlights the natural grain without any of the muddiness common in cheaper brands. Best of all, the eco-friendly, low-VOC composition ensures a safe, odor-free experience for your indoor crafting, while the rapid-dry technology allows you to finish your work in a single afternoon. Trust me, the superior consistency of this blend provides the smoothest application imaginable, giving your DIY crafts the most professional and luxurious finish every single time.

Pro Grade 10-Piece Bristle Paintbrush Set

Pro Grade 10-Piece Bristle Paintbrush Set

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Tired of your DIY projects looking like a splotchy mess after hours of hard work? We've all been there, staring at a "vintage" sign that just looks dirty, but this wood stain is the total game-changer you need to finally get that Pinterest-perfect finish. To nail the look, just give your wood a quick sand, grab a natural bristle brush to load up the pigment, swipe on a thin layer following the grain, and wipe away the excess after a minute-it's seriously that easy. Its high-pigment density means you get deep, rich color in just one pass so you aren't wasting product, while the ultra-fast dry time ensures you aren't stuck waiting all day to move on to the next step of your project. You'll end up with a professional, durable glow that makes your handmade crafts look like high-end boutique finds without the frustration of uneven patches or sticky residues.


Choosing the Right Wood Stain Chemistry for Intricate Craft Projects

Selecting the appropriate stain chemistry is vital for maintaining the details of intricate crafts. Water-based stains offer quick drying times and low odor, making them ideal for indoor hobby spaces. However, oil-based stains provide a longer "open time," allowing for easier blending on complex surfaces.

  • Dye Stains: Best for deep penetration without obscuring fine wood grain.
  • Pigmented Stains: Ideal for bold color, though they may settle in carvings.
  • Gel Stains: Thick consistency prevents drips on vertical or detailed elements.

Preventing Blotching and Uneven Absorption on Softwood Craft Blanks

Softwoods like pine, cedar, and spruce possess varying densities that lead to "blotching." This occurs when porous earlywood absorbs more pigment than dense latewood. To ensure a professional finish on craft blanks, surface preparation is mandatory.

Applying a pre-stain wood conditioner acts as a sealer to partially plug the pores. This creates a uniform surface tension, allowing the stain to lay evenly across the wood rather than soaking in sporadically.

How to Achieve Consistent Color Depth Across Different Wood Species

Craft projects often utilize mixed wood species, which react differently to the same pigment. Achieving a uniform look requires adjusting your application technique based on the wood's natural "porosity" and base tone.

Wood Type Porosity Recommended Approach
Oak High Wipe off excess quickly to prevent over-darkening.
Maple Low Use multiple thin coats or dye-based stains.
Cherry Medium Use a toner to balance natural darkening over time.

Techniques for Applying Stain to Laser Cut and Engraved Wood Edges

Laser-cut edges are carbonized, creating a charred surface that resists standard liquid stains. To achieve a clean look, sand the edges lightly to remove the char layer before application. When working with engravings, use a fine-tipped brush or a paint pen to fill details without flooding the surrounding surface. Capillary action can pull stain into the grain, so applying a light clear coat before staining can help "mask" areas you wish to keep clean.

Managing Dry Times and Room Temperature for Optimal Stain Penetration

Environmental conditions dictate how well a stain bonds with wood fibers. The ideal temperature for staining is between 65°F and 75°F with humidity below 50%.

  1. Cold Temperatures: Thicken the stain and significantly extend drying times.
  2. High Heat: Causes solvent to evaporate too fast, leading to lap marks.
  3. High Humidity: Can cause oil-based stains to remain tacky for days.

Troubleshooting Wood Stain Bleed Through and Grain Raising Issues

Grain raising is a common byproduct of water-based stains, where wood fibers swell and create a fuzzy texture. To mitigate this, "pre-raise" the grain by misting the wood with water, letting it dry, and sanding it smooth before staining. Bleed through occurs when tannins or previous dyes seep into the new finish; applying a coat of de-waxed shellac acts as an effective barrier against these migrating chemicals.

Best Practices for Sealing Stained Craft Projects Without Altering Color

Sealing protects the color but can often shift the hue or add an unwanted yellow tint. To preserve the exact look of your stain, use a "water-white" acrylic or a non-yellowing polyurethane. Avoid traditional linseed oil or amber-toned varnishes on cool-toned stains. Always apply a thin mist of spray lacquer for the first coat on delicate crafts to avoid "smearing" the underlying stain with a brush.

The Impact of Wood Moisture Content on Craft Stain Adhesion and Clarity

Wood is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture from the air. For optimal staining, moisture content should be between 6% and 10%. If the wood is too wet, the stain cannot penetrate the cells, resulting in a cloudy appearance or eventual peeling. Use a moisture meter on thicker craft blocks to ensure the core is dry, ensuring the color remains vibrant and the finish adheres permanently.

Food Safe Wood Stain Options for Kitchen and Childrens Craft Items

Safety is paramount for items like cutting boards or toys. Many commercial stains contain heavy metals and VOCs. Fortunately, several natural and food-safe alternatives exist:

  • Pure Tung Oil: Provides a waterproof, matte finish.
  • Coffee or Tea Dyes: Natural tannins provide earthy tones.
  • Butcher Block Oil: Mineral oil-based finishes that are easily reapplied.
  • Milk Paint: Non-toxic and available in various colors for a rustic look.

Correcting Common Staining Errors and Stripping Finishes on Small Surfaces

Small-scale errors require precision. If a section is too dark, wipe it with a cloth dampened in mineral spirits (for oil) or water (for water-based) while still wet. For dried mistakes on intricate crafts, use a chemical furniture stripper paired with a brass bristle brush to reach into crevices without damaging the wood profiles. Always sand lightly after stripping to restore the "tooth" of the wood for the new finish.


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Marcus Thorne brings over 15 years of experience in executive search and corporate headhunting to Covlett.
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