Staining question

[Gauze woodworks]

A question for the group.i am building raised panel cabinet doors. Due to expansion and contraction, should I stain before glue up or after. Thanks for your replies.

[pkinneb]

You definitely want to stain them first I usually do one or two coats of my topcoat as well.

[JohnG]

It would be a good idea to stain the panels before glue up. You may want to go ahead and put your topcoat on the panels before glue up as well.

If you don’t stain the panels ahead of time, you run the risk of having a bit of the unstained edges show during the dry season. 

In addition to the wood movement issue, it’s generally easier to apply your stain and finish when the panel is a separate piece. 

[Gauze woodworks]

Thanks guys. I was thinking that this was the way go, but wasn't sure. I appreciate the info.

[Rapid Roger]

Just be sure to cover and leave raw all the places for glue. Glue doesn't like to stick to any kind of stain or finish.

 

[AceHoleInOne]

You don't have to do the door panel separate. I will get the stain a little wetter around where the door panel and the cope and stick meet. Then use compressed air to blow the stain under. Also, the compressed air will feather the color better in corners, unlike using a brush or rag. 

 

-Ace-

[Steve B Anderson]

I always finish components before assembly. It just makes the finishing process easier with the all of the scuffing between dye/stain gel coat and top finish applications.