Staining butcher block countertops can change the look of your kitchen and bring old wood to life. Before dyeing, it’s important to choose a food-safe product and a compatible sealer.
Types of stains on butcher blocks
There are three types of Butcher Block stains: water-based, oil-based and a one-step oil+stain combo. Be careful with the products you choose, as you need to find wood conditioners and sealers with the same base. For example, if you use a water-based stain, you need a water-based wood conditioner and sealer.
- Aqueous butcher block stain – Fast drying, easy application and easy to find food grade product.
- oily stain – Penetrates deeper into wood than water-based stains and it’s easier to find compatible wood conditioners, but these stains are not always safe for food surfaces.
- oil + stain combo – Dye and seal your butcher block in one step and dry to food grade.
Regardless of the stain you choose, if you place food directly on the counter, make sure the product is safe on the food surface.
How to prepare a butcher block counter stain
The next tutorial will show you how to prepare your butcher’s block so it doesn’t get dirty. Unless otherwise specified, follow these steps regardless of which product you are using.
Step 1: Polish the Counters
For new unfinished counters, use 120-grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections.
If the counter has a previous finish, use 80 grit coarse sandpaper to remove it and switch to 120 grit sandpaper.
After sanding with 120-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge, coat the counter with 150-grit sandpaper.
Always sand in the direction of the piece of wood.
If you need to fix a dent or crack in your countertop (most likely an old butcher block), collect all the dust from sanding with 120-grit paper and move on to the next step.
Step 2: Fill holes or cracks (optional)
If your counters are old and have holes or cracks where food can collect, fill the dents with food-safe wood glue and sanding dust. Use the powder you got in the previous step and mix it with the glue until it forms a thick paste.
Press the paste into any holes or cracks and use the scraper to smooth the adhesive to the countertop.
After the paste dries, sand the counter again with 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 150-grit sandpaper, and wipe clean.
Step 3: Smooth with 220 grit
A final sanding of the counters with 220 grit sandpaper leaves a smooth finish.
Step 4: Remove sanding dust
Use a Shop Vac or tack cloth to remove all sanding dust. Then wipe the counter with a cloth dampened with water to remove all traces of dust. Let the counter dry.
How to Stain a Butcher Block Counter with Water- or Oil-Based Stains
After preparing your counters according to the instructions above, choose a stain product and a matching wood conditioner and sealer.
Step 1: Apply Wood Conditioner to Countertops
Apply the wood conditioner to the counter using a soft cloth or brush according to the package directions. Allow the conditioner to dry for at least two hours, then sand the surface with 220-grit sandpaper.
Remove all polishing dust.
Note: Note that the wood conditioner should be on the same base as the stain.
Step 2: Apply the first stain coat
Add the first layer according to the directions on the staining package. In most cases, use a natural bristle brush to evenly apply the countertop along the direction of the wood strip. Cover the edges and bottom of the counter for a uniform look.
Let the stain dry for 6-8 hours, or the time specified on the can.
Step 3: Add Second Coat
After the first coat dries, follow the same steps to add a second coat. Watch out for drips and drips.
Let the second stain dry for at least 8 hours. If you are not satisfied with the color of your counter, add a third coat when the second coat dries.
Step 4: Seal the Counter
In the final step, we need to seal the counter. The sealer you use should be compatible with the type of stain. Remember to use a food-safe sealer when preparing food on the counter.
- Most Waterlox products, which are tung oil and resin sealers, can be used over water and oil-based stains.
- Polyacrylic is effective against water-based stains.
- Polyurethane is effective against oily stains.
Also, check the stain product you are using. Your brand may have a companion sealer for your butcher’s block counter.
How to Stain Butcher Blocks with a Food Safe Oil and Stain Combo
If you prefer a simpler dyeing method, a combination of oil and dyeing is the best choice.Consider a product like Watco Butcher Block Stain From Rustreum. When completely dry, it is non-toxic and food-safe, eliminating the need for a separate sealer.
Step 1: Prepare the Countertop
Counters must be in pristine condition prior to application of food-safe Oil + Stain products. Polish the counters using the preparation steps above.
Step 2: Apply the first coat with a soft cloth.
Use a soft cloth to apply the stain evenly in the direction of the piece of wood. Don’t forget the edges and under the counter. Wait at least 6 hours for the stain to dry.
Step 3: Sand with 400 grit sandpaper
Between coats, sand the countertop with 400-grit sandpaper and wipe off sanding dust with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Step 4: Apply Second Coat
Use a soft cloth for the second coat. Wait at least 6 hours before testing. If you are satisfied with the finished product, stop here. If you want a darker color, apply more coats.
Step 5: Wash and use after 72 hours
Wait 72 hours after the final coat. Then, hand wash the counters with mild soap and water before each use.
