It is almost impossible to prevent pine from yellowing beyond its fresh-cut state. However, it is possible to minimize it. To help diminish unwanted yellow tones, you can opt for a water-based urethane finish instead of an oil-based finish. With this finish, most of the pale tones in the pine remain while the natural grain is enhanced. Water-base urethane dries quickly and is less toxic. However, its drawbacks are its low durability, it scratches easily and requires more refinishing compared to oil-based products.
Below are some combinations of light pine stains to try to lighten this pine board and diminish the yellow undertones.
Here are the combinations from left to right.
The first combination is the Minwax Pre-Stain Conditioner, followed by the Minwax Pickled Oak, followed by the Varathane Crystal Clear. This has a subtle yellow undertone compared to the original fresh-cut pine. You can see a strip of the original color right next to the stained pine for comparison.
The second combination is the Minwax Pre-Stain Conditioner, followed by Varathane White, followed by the Varathane Crystal Clear. This combination is very similar to the original fresh-cut pine; it's even a little brighter and whiter.
The third combination is the Minwax Pre-Stain Conditioner, followed by 1/2 Minwax Pickled Oak and 1/2 Varathane White, followed by the Varathane Crystal Clear. If you don't want your pine to be too white, this is a better option for you.
The fourth combination is Minwax Pre-Stain Conditioner, followed by Varathane Early American, followed by the Varathane Crystal Clear. This option is a bit darker, but it hides the yellow undertones well while giving the wood an antique look.
The last combination is the Varathane White, followed by the Varathane Crystal Clear. I was curious to see if the Pre-Stain Conditioner yellowed the pine to begin with. I see a subtle difference between this combination and the second combination. It is a tad brighter, but it is barely noticeable. All in all, the conditioner doesn't make much of a difference.
For a more accurate representation of the colors, visit our Pinterest page for a video of all these combinations. Follow us on Insta @RoseRenosDesign for the final result of the stained pine beam in our client's home.
Happy renovating!
The Roses
#Homerenovations #Beam #Stains #Minwax #Varathane #Pine #Pinewood #Pinestain #DIY #Woodstains #Woodwork #Roserenos #Light Pine Stain - How to Keep Pine from Yellowing