What is a Stain?
A stain is a type of finish that is applied to wood surfaces to alter their color or enhance their natural beauty while still allowing the grain pattern to show through. Stains are commonly used in woodworking and furniture making to achieve a desired aesthetic effect or to match the color of different wood pieces.
Stains are typically composed of a pigment or dye that imparts color to the wood and a solvent or carrier that helps the stain penetrate into the wood fibers. The pigment or dye can be oil-based, water-based, or solvent-based, and each type has its own characteristics and application methods. 
When applying a stain, the wood surface is typically prepared by sanding it to a smooth finish and removing any dust or debris. The stain is then applied using a brush, cloth, or sponge, and it is worked into the wood surface to ensure even coverage. After the stain is applied, it is allowed to penetrate the wood for a specific period of time before any excess stain is wiped away. This helps achieve the desired color intensity and allows the natural grain of the wood to show through.
