Colour matching and sample boards

Overview

A sample board predicts the finished colour before you commit the project. Fine Woodworking (Masaschi) recommends offcuts from every wood in the project, including plywood and veneer, at least 7 in. square per finishing step, prepared exactly like the real piece. Predictability and repeatability are the goal.

When to use

Any time you stain, dye or layer colour; always when colour matching an existing piece.

Materials and tools

Offcuts, the same sandpaper, finish products, a white plastic plate for mixing dye tests, and notes. Fine Woodworking dye guidance: sample boards at least 4 by 6 in. with notes.

Steps

1. Cut offcuts from every species, plywood and veneer.
2. Sand exactly as you will the project (Sanding schedule).
3. Make a step sample: 1 to 5 coats, in fifths (Masaschi). Add a stain, then clear coats up to the final sheen. Multi-colour layering needs a step sample.
4. Test dye colour on a white plate first; neutralize with the complement or add 2 to 3% black (Fine Woodworking).
5. Finish the board with the clear coat. Alcohol and water dyes need a clear coat to show their final look; some NGR stains start unrealistically bright and fade.
6. Preview base colour with alcohol or mineral spirits wetted on a sample (Fine Woodworking).
7. Write notes on the back (Puro).

Common problems

• Colour looks different on the project: not the same wood or sanding.
• Bright dye fades: check against lightfastness (Water-soluble dye stain).
• Dark pores: seal and glaze (Glaze and antiquing glaze).

Safety and environment

Same as the finishes you test. Keep oily rags from sample work in water-filled sealed cans (Oil-based pigment stain).

Related

• Pigment vs dye stain explained
• Water-soluble dye stain
• Toners and shading lacquer