The most effective way to match an existing wood varnish is by providing a physical sample of the finished wood you wish to match.
Matching wood varnish, especially tinted or aged finishes, requires comparing the new product directly against the existing finish on the actual wood species. Here’s how to approach it:
Why a Sample Piece is Crucial
According to sources, the recommended method is to bring in a sample piece to be matched. This is because the final appearance of a finish isn't solely determined by the varnish itself, but also by how it interacts with the specific wood it's applied to. Factors like wood species, grain pattern, porosity, and any underlying stain or treatment all influence the final color and tone.
Just as stain can look different on different pieces of wood, a varnish's tint or the way it enhances the wood color can vary significantly. Relying solely on color swatches or memory can lead to inaccurate matches.
Selecting the Right Sample
Choosing the correct sample is vital for a successful match. Don't just grab the easiest piece to remove; select a sample piece that accurately represents the color, tone, and overall look of the finish you want to replicate.
- Choose Representative Areas: If matching trim, take a piece of trim that matches the majority color. If matching a cabinet, perhaps a kick plate or the back of a drawer face that receives similar light exposure as the main piece.
- Consider the Desired Look: Ensure the sample piece has the color and tone you want to match, especially if the existing finish has aged or faded unevenly.
- Size Matters (to an extent): A piece large enough to clearly show the color and grain is helpful, but it doesn't need to be excessively large. A few square inches are often sufficient.
The Matching Process
Once you have your sample:
- Visit a Specialist Retailer: Take the sample to a paint or wood finishing store, ideally one with experienced staff or color matching services.
- Expert Analysis: Staff can analyze the sample to determine:
- The underlying wood species.
- Whether a stain was used before the varnish.
- The type of varnish (polyurethane, lacquer, shellac, etc.).
- The tint and sheen level.
- Color/Tint Matching: For tinted varnishes or finishes where the color is part of the match, they may use color-matching technology or manual tinting to create a custom batch that aligns with your sample.
- Sheen Matching: The sheen (gloss, semi-gloss, satin, matte) will also be matched.
By bringing in a physical sample, you provide the best possible reference for achieving a close match to your existing wood varnish finish.
