When selecting a dark brown wood stain, there are a few key factors to consider. The type of wood, the desired shade of brown, and the finish level (glossy vs. matte) will all impact your choice. In this article, we’ll recommend some of the best dark brown wood stains and provide tips for choosing the right product for your project.
Types of Dark Brown Wood Stains
There are two main categories of wood stain that can achieve a dark brown color:
- Oil-based stains
- Water-based stains
Oil-based stains contain pigments suspended in an oil carrier, usually linseed oil or tung oil. They penetrate deeply into the wood grain to provide a rich, durable color. Oil-based stains bring out the natural pattern and beauty of wood. The oils allow for a wet application and longer open time before drying.
Water-based stains use water as the pigment carrier. They provide a more uniform, consistent color than oil-based options. Water-based stains are lower in volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and clean up easily with soap and water. The color may not be as deep, but water-based stains still produce an attractive dark brown finish.
Best Oil-Based Dark Brown Wood Stains
Minwax Special Walnut
Minwax Special Walnut is a rich, chocolaty brown oil-based stain. It has warm red undertones that give wood a traditional, handsome look. Special Walnut works well on many types of wood, especially oak, pine, maple, ash, and mahogany. It’s available in a 224 fl oz can or smaller sample sizes.
Varathane Premium Dark Walnut
From Rust-Oleum, Varathane Premium Dark Walnut stain provides a deep, ebony-like brown. It goes on smoothly and evenly for consistent coverage. The oil-based formula enhances natural wood grain. Dark Walnut pairs nicely with maple, oak, pine, and birch. It comes in quarts and smaller sizes.
Minwax Ebony
For an extremely dark brown-black finish, consider Minwax Ebony Wood Stain. The near-black color transforms light woods into striking, bold-colored pieces. Ebony works best on clean, bare wood and may require pre-staining to avoid uneven blotching on certain types of lumber like pine, maple, birch or fir.
Best Water-Based Dark Brown Wood Stains
Varathane Dark Walnut
As a water-based alternative, Varathane Dark Walnut provides rich brown coloring that enriches natural wood tones. The low-odor, low-VOC formula applies easily with a brush or cloth. Dark Walnut offers deeper penetration than traditional water-based stains. It’s ideal for interior projects like furniture, cabinets, doors and trim.
Minwax Espresso
With its caffeine-inspired name, it’s no surprise that Minwax Espresso stain provides a deep, dark brown hue. The brown has a grayish-black tint. Espresso works well on all types of wood and pairs nicely with white painted accents. Keep in mind, this water-based stain may raise the wood grain slightly.
Rust-Oleum Dark Walnut
Rust-Oleum also makes a water-based version of their popular Dark Walnut stain. It retains the same rich chocolate tone but with lower odor and easier soap and water cleanup. The stain soaks into wood for a long-lasting, uniform finish. Rust-Oleum Dark Walnut protects against UV damage as well.
Tips for Choosing a Dark Brown Wood Stain
Here are a few helpful tips for selecting the right dark brown wood stain for your project:
- Test colors on wood scrap pieces first
- Apply pre-stain conditioner if staining porous woods like pine
- Shake and stir oil-based stains thoroughly before and during use
- Wipe on thin coats moving with the direction of the wood grain
- Allow proper drying time between coats
- Protect the finish with polyurethane or varnish
- Clean up oil-based stains with mineral spirits, water-based with soap and water
Comparing Dark Brown Stain Shades
The specific shade of dark brown will vary by brand. Here’s a look at how some popular wood stain colors compare:
| Brand | Stain Color Name | Color Tone |
|---|---|---|
| Minwax | Special Walnut | Mid-range brown with red undertones |
| Varathane | Premium Dark Walnut | Very deep chocolate brown |
| Rust-Oleum | Kona | Slightly reddish dark brown |
| Minwax | Ebony | Near-black brown |
Achieving Different Finish Levels
The appearance of stained wood will range from matte to glossy depending on the finishing product used. For a completely matte look, apply stain then seal with a matte or satin polyurethane. Semi-gloss polyurethane provides a medium luster finish. High-gloss polyurethane or varnish offers maximum sheen and protection.
Conclusion
Dark brown wood stains can add beautiful, dramatic color to indoor and outdoor wood projects. Options like Minwax Special Walnut, Varathane Dark Walnut, and Rust-Oleum Dark Walnut provide rich chocolate brown tones. Adjusting the finish level also impacts the look. With the right preparation and application, a high-quality dark brown stain enhances the depth, contrast and interest of wood’s natural grain. Use this guide to choose the ideal product to achieve the warm, sophisticated look of fine dark-stained woodwork.
