Dark semi-opaque finish on Oak

[matthew]

In eg Habitat/Conran/Heals etc you often see oak (veneered) furniture with a very dark brown or almost black finish. It's not quite a stain since it's semi-opaque, but not so thick that fills the grain, which can still be seen.

Not actually a big fan of it but have been asked to do something similar - any ideas how it's done?

MTIA, Matthew

 

[Scrit]

Possibly a dye plus a pigmented carrier added to a clear lacquer, i.e. a combination of a dye and a stain. Someone like Morrells or Bolloms should be able to supply you with an appropriate finish

Scrit

 

[jasonB]

I've used Vandyke crystals to get a very dark chocolate brown, then sealed with sanding sealer before a few coats of water bourne lacquer.

Jason

 

[matthew]

Many thanks for the suggestions... another couple of things to add to my list of experiments...

Regards, Matthew