Trying to get ebony finsih with Homestead Black Dye....

[mzancz]

Hello,

I am building my first project, it's a small entertainment center to go under a lcd tv. It is being made mainly out of popular plywood. Anyway I am trying to get a dark ebony finish, I have done alot of research on here and have begun testing some different techniques. So far I tried minwax ebony stain, on raw wood, which only made the wood a light gray. Next I tried another test piece with some of the homestead black dye mixed with water also on raw wood after I raised the grain and lightly sanded. This came out much darker. Next I tried another piece with a little more dye added to the mixture and it came out even darker. However when when it dried I could see some of the wood color coming through. Should I next put a coat of the ebony stain over the dyed piece to cover up the spots that are bleeding through. Then follow that up with some coats of wipe on poly. I want to be able to see the grain patterns still, but right now I can see the actual original wood color in some areas. From what I read that is what it seems like you guys are doing. Should I do any light sanding ant any stage or just in between the clear coats? Any suggestions from the experts would be appreciated, I know for my first large project a choose a tough color! I saw a couple members’ projects on here with the dark ebony look, I can't remember who, but that is the look I am shooting for.

Thanks in advance,
Mike

[cabinetman]

On a sample, try a methanol based black aniline dye. It won't raise the grain.

[cgallery]

I've had very good luck with these for black:

http://www.generalfinishes.com/finis...d_Wood_Stains_

[jspelbring]

India Ink

I've used this (diluted in alcohol) with decent results.

I've also heard of soaking steel wool in vinegar, though I haven't tried it yet.

[Jeffrey Schronce]

If you are not applying multiple coats of the dye you should do so. I am not sure how well your chosen material will take the dye and I am not sure how it will look when finished. My guess is it will look a bit "plasticy" since there is no wood grain, etc visible in poplar.
Try flooding 3-4 coats of the Homestead dye. Then apply a couple coats of your final finish. The depth and darkness improve dramatically when you put a couple of coats over the dye. The dried dye will not be the same color when put on the finish, rather it will be much darker.
Test that out. Should work out, I have used a lot of the Homestead Black Dye you are using with great results on oak and ash.