Iron and Vinegar

[WastedP]

Years ago I built a log bench and stained it with a mix of different stain colors to try and emulate the bluish-black stain color I had seen elsewhere.  Today I discovered that what I was trying to copy was an iron and vinegar wash.  I did a little research and found several different methods that all make sense.  After several years of sitting outside in four-season weather and 120 degree temperature swings, it's time to sand down the spar varnish and refinish it.

Does anyone have experience with this type of finish?  Are there any pitfalls I should avoid?  Will trying to apply it to a pre-stained wood interfere with the reaction with the wood tannins?

 

[tjbnwi]

I have use this method. Never tried it on wood that was already stained. My guess would be, as long as there is no finish to interfere with the reaction it should be okay.

Other option is to apply a strong black tea. This is what I do with woods that have no or little tannins. The tea adds the tannins to the wood.

Tom

 

[roblg3]

AGAIN! Tom you teach me so much.  Thank you [big grin]