How can I stain some rosewood chess pieces to made them look like ebony? What stain is the best for this?

Question

How can I stain some rosewood chess pieces to made them look like ebony? What stain is the best for this?

Answer 1

Usually, chess pieces have a protective finish on them so that would have to be removed.

Next is the problem that you are dealing with Rosewood. It is already a very beautiful wood, but like most all exotic hardwoods, it contains a certain amount of oil naturally that you need to find a good finish that will absorb into the wood.

I think that your local furniture dealer/ finisher would be able to better assist you, but there are some problems that you have to work out.

Bradford

http://www.braroechess.com

Answer 2

Um, rose wood is a good wood. Why are you disguising it?

Answer 3

First off, why would you want to change the color of rosewood chess pieces?  The rosewood pieces I've seen are beautiful as they are.  In addition, most wood will darken as it ages.

If you are determined to get them really black, you will need an ebony wood stain.  You will have to remove the finish before you attempt staining. Getting a good black stain usually requires more than one coat. Once you have obtained the blackness you  desire, make sure it is completely dry and apply any suitable finish, either oil or some type of varnish.