Post #722910 by freestylpolaris on Fri, Jul 18, 2014 12:29 AM

Ok. Fire curing is out of the question now :] I agree that with a little bit of work this piece can be restored and look great. I was thinking about using a dark stain like red mahogany on the main support beams and then a slightly lighter stain for the front and side paneling. What do you think? Another alternative I was thinking of was using amber on the main support beams and then clear on the main and side paneling. Otherwise I am just going to stain it all one color. Please let me know if you have any suggestions about design!

Also, could someone please give me some tips on sanding and staining bamboo/rattan? I have never stained anything in my life so starting with this project is going to be a tough way to learn. It sounds like I just have to sand and apply several coats of stain with a brush or sponge. Has anyone stained for outside use and have a recommendation on types to use?

1. water or oil based? (leaning towards water since easier cleanup and non-flammable)
2. what looks best: transparant, semi-transparant, solid (leaning towards semi-transparant to restore color while still showing off the bamboo)
3. What type of stain should I use for outdoor on bamboo/rattan? Shellac, varnish, polyeurthane, varnish? (Sounds like a varnish stain might be most resistant to outdoor weather)

Here is an example of a design I am considering. Just look at the very front counter. I would make the support beams that darker color of the supporting wood and I would make the front and side panels that lighter amber color.

Here is another example of something similar that I might go with. That amber/orange color for the paneling with the darker color for the poles and countertop:

If anyone knows the exact stain colors of any of the images please let me know. Otherwise I am bringing in the pictures to home depot and relying on them.

[ Edited by: freestylpolaris 2014-07-18 00:34 ]

[ Edited by: freestylpolaris 2014-07-18 00:45 ]