I have been experimenting with getting a "cherry" finish on hard maple. I have been going water-based all the way, using TransTint dye and Target Coatings Em8000 CV finish.
1) While there is minimal splotch, there is still a little too much color variations from the different absorption rates of the grain. I am thinking about going 1/2 strength with the dye and toning the finish the rest of the way. This would mean 3-4 coats of toner (in my case, just the finish with some dye added) before the top coats. Any experience with this or suggestions?2) I have heard good things about General Finishes, especially their pre-cat poly, for cabinets. Has anyone played with this? Ideally, a comparison with Em8000 would be great--saving me an $80 experiment.
3) I keep seeing people brush on "stain" in the DIY shows... just a brush and no wiping. Is there anything out there this easy to apply that gives good results, or does this stuff only work on TV?Cheers, Shawn
PS: I spray with Jewitt's QualSpray AM-6008 gun and can definitely recommend it.