Table In Progress - Staining Question

OMG Eggs

Hi Everybody - I'm working on a new egg table and have a question - Should I stain before assembly or after assembly?

Here's a few in process picks of the bottom base (it's laying on the top base). I made some slight adjustments to the the naked whiz plans and have used double pined dowels and nails rather than screws. Yes, I know I need to cut holes for the legs .

The legs are 4x4s and I'm still looking around for casters. I'm also still hunting for a table top... it will be some type of solid surface.

ledmond

You should probably plan on both. One coat in pieces and another assembled which will catch all nicks, drills, recuts, edges, etc. Plus you can stain (and seal) butt end cuts which is probably the most important. This is where wood absorbs the most moisture, like a straw or wick, if you will.

Capt Frank

It is much easier to stain and varnish or seal prior to assembly and you will get a much better finish.
You don't have to stain at all unless you just prefer a different color/tone to your table.
I like to finish with Min-Wax Urathane spar varnish in satin, but that is just my taste


P4060004 by

Capt Frank
Homosassa, FL