Stain then epoxy or epoxy then stain?

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Matt

I am making new hatchboards for my boat by using marine grade Okume plywood. Naturally, it needs to be stained in order to match the teak as near as possible. I am going to seal the wood with West System, but do I stain first then epoxy, or epoxy then stain? I was reading the info on West System's website and it was unclear on the subject. Seems like you would stain first in order for it to penetrate, but a friend told me otherwise. Any thoughts appreciated, Matt
 
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LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners

Stain first

I can't imagine why your friend would think you would epoxy first. The purpose of applying epoxy is to PREVENT the absorbtion of anything. But I *would* let the stain soak in for awhile before applying epoxy. This should allow the oils in the stain to absorb without disrupting how the epoxy cures. LaDonna
 
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Tom Ehmke

Ditto what LaDonna said.

Stain must penetrate the wood surface. If you epoxy it first the grain is sealed and the stain won't penetrate and is essentially worthless. It'll just smear off with time.
 
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Matt

Thanks, that is what I thought. Need new friends

that know what they are talking about!
 
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