We matched a modern cherry bookcase to an existing furniture piece using a light walnut stain. The piece looks very rich against the dark red walls in this living room.
STEP 1: This piece was unifinished, so we started by finish sanding following the step-by-step directions in Wood 101.
Clean the bookcase with a cloth dampened with mineral spirits.
STEP 2: Next comes the stain. We used Varathane Premium Light Walnut Stain. Stir the contents of your stain thoroughly before use. Apply with a synthetic or natural-bristle brush or clean, lint-free cloth. (It's best to apply stain with a cloth when working on a vertical project.) Be sure to apply the stain across the grain until the wood is saturated on top. Wipe the excess stain off in the direction of the wood grain. Don't let the stain dry before wiping excess.
STEP 3: If you want a darker color, a second coat of stain can be applied after two hours. Do not sand between stain coats.
