I chose stain grade pine trim for my new shop and used the same oil-based finish that I used on the oak beams. The problem is that the color of the trim does not match the beams.
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I understand that the trim will darken a bit over time, but I thought I would try some stain I had on hand to even out the color. I have some Zar gel, in Modern Walnut, (same color in an updated can is called Aged Bourbon). The result is great for color. Here I have placed some sample finished pieces in front of the actual trim for comparison.
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The question is compatibility and curing. The samples were cured for about a week before applying the Zar. A couple of days later the stained finish on the sample is not hardened, not tacky but it feels like you could rub it off.
Some background on the finishes, Heritage Original is safe, eco-friendly mix of linseed oil, Tung oil, pine rosin, beeswax, and citrus solvent. The oils contain no metallic driers so the finish cures over a period of weeks. It does end up as a hardened oil finish. No info on the ingredient proportions. This product used to be made by Land Ark.
No info on the Zar ingredients. It says it is compatible with oil and water based poly finishes. I do not know anything about what is in the gelling agents. I cannot imagine what would not be compatible with the Heritage finish except maybe the beeswax for adhesion.
My questions are for others’ experience with hardening oil finishes and Zar gel, chemistry that might affect compatibility, and drying and curing strategies.
Thanks.