Creating your own wood toner is a game-changer for achieving a customized, professional finish on your furniture refinishing projects. A wood toner is essentially a transparent or translucent coating that subtly adjusts the color of your wood while letting the natural grain shine through. By using water-based products, you ensure an environmentally friendly and easy-to-clean approach to achieving your desired look.
Materials Needed
Water-Based Topcoat (Matte, Satin, or Gloss, depending on your desired finish)
You can find my favorite Polyvine Wax Finish Varnish topcoat here.
Water-Based Stain or Paint (Choose a color that complements or contrasts with your base wood tone)
Topcoat Brush (I recommend size 16 for smooth application)
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
• Lay down a drop cloth to protect your work surface.
• Make sure your workspace is clean and well-ventilated.
• Ensure the furniture piece is clean, dry, and sanded if needed. Wipe it down with a tack cloth to remove dust.
Step 2: Mix the Toner
1. Choose Your Base Ratio
Start with a 4:1 ratio of water-based topcoat to stain or paint. This ensures the mixture remains translucent and easy to build up in layers.
Example: If you’re mixing 1 oz of topcoat, add 0.25 oz (1/4 oz) of stain or paint.
2. Combine and Mix
I use this Polyvine topcoat for its smooth application. Pour the topcoat into your mixing container first, then gradually add the stain or paint. Stir thoroughly with a paint stick to ensure a consistent mixture with no lumps or streaks.
3. Test the Mixture
Before applying it to your furniture, test the toner on a scrap piece of wood or an inconspicuous area of your furniture. Adjust the ratio if needed to achieve your desired level of transparency or color depth.
Step 3: Apply the Toner
1. Brush or Spray Application
• For brushing: Use your favorite topcoat brush to apply an even coat of the toner. Work in the direction of the wood grain for a smooth finish.
• For spraying: Use an HVLP sprayer for an ultra-smooth, professional-grade application. Thin the mixture slightly with water (about 10%) if necessary for better flow.
2. Work in Thin Layers
Apply the toner in thin, even layers. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Drying time typically ranges from 1-2 hours, depending on your topcoat product and environmental conditions.
3. Build the Color Gradually
The beauty of a toner is in its buildability. Add more layers to achieve a richer tone or stop after one or two coats for a subtle effect.
Step 4: Seal the Finish
Once you’re happy with the toner’s effect, seal the furniture with a clear coat of water-based topcoat. This will protect your work and enhance the durability of the finish.
Tips for Success
1. Experiment with Colors: Don’t be afraid to mix different stains or paints to create a custom hue that perfectly matches your vision.
2. Sand Between Coats: Use fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 320-grit) to lightly sand between coats for an ultra-smooth finish.
3. Avoid Overloading: Always apply thin layers to avoid drips and uneven color.
Why Use a Toner?
Toners are perfect for subtly enhancing or altering the tone of your wood furniture without hiding its beautiful grain. They’re especially helpful for:
• Evening out color inconsistencies
• Toning down a too-bright stain
• Adding depth and character to a piece
My Favorite Toner Color: Weathered Bronze
One of my go-to colors for toning after staining is Weathered Bronze.
This transformative color beautifully mutes orange tones while adding depth and sophistication. It’s a dark, muted brown with a unique blend of deep moss green and warm earthy undertones. The result is a raw, organic aesthetic reminiscent of aged metal, giving furniture a natural, timeless appeal.
In the before picture, the orange tones dominate, making the piece feel a bit dated. But in the after picture, Weathered Bronze subdues those tones, creating a balanced, refined finish that enhances the grain and gives the furniture a modern, earthy vibe.
Transform Your Furniture with Custom Toners
With just a few materials and steps, you can elevate your furniture refinishing game by creating a wood toner tailored to your exact needs. Whether you’re going for a warm golden glow, a moody gray, or a bold modern hue, the customization options are endless. Give it a try and watch your pieces transform into stunning works of art!
