The staining of wood creates a beautiful and natural look that is truly timeless. Staining is a top choice for kitchen items or décor pieces such as cutting boards and signs, as it is a practical and beautiful choice. Yet when it comes to customized laser engraved products, knowing whether it is best to use unstained or stained wood can be a bit of a toss-up. Though there are some things you should know about staining and laser engraving, in most cases staining wood before or after laser engraving can simply be a personal preference.
At Aeon Laser Canada, we bring you high-quality laser engraving machines while also providing you with the support you need to use them successfully. We know that learning how to use your laser engraver is a process. That’s why we are here to answer some of the most asked questions about laser engraving wood. In this post, we help you answer the question, can your laser engrave stained wood, and help you get ready to use your laser engraver for wood with confidence.
Should I Stain Wood Before Laser Engraving?
If you are planning to use your laser engraver on wood that is already stained, you likely won’t have any issues. Many makers choose to use stained wood in laser engraving, while others wait until after the wood has been engraved to complete staining. You’ll want to keep in mind that fumes can be an issue when working with stained wood. Consider using a water-based stain to reduce fumes or simply allow stains to dry off completely before using your laser.
Will Laser Engraving Wood Leave a Residue?
When using a laser engraver on wood, you’ll need to consider that a residue is often left behind. When staining a piece of wood after engraving it, you’ll want to remove the residue prior to staining. Though residue isn’t usually a problem for most makers, staining after engraving could smudge residue over your finished piece if it isn’t removed effectively. To remove residue on wood after engraving, you can simply dab a paper towel in vinegar and wipe off the residue.
When it comes to working with wood, your laser engraver unlocks endless possibilities. Whether you enjoy staining your wood pieces before or after engraving, you can create beautiful products. Get creative and develop a process that works best for you. For more tips on laser engraving wood, see our post, Get Creative With Laser Engraving on Wood and How to Create a Darker Effect With Laser Engraving.