Staining Drum Shells

Staining drum shells might seem confusing at first, but it’s actually not complicated once you grasp the basics. The market offers numerous products, which can be overwhelming. Unlike paint, stains dye the wood fibers, highlighting the natural wood grain patterns. This enhances the shell’s beauty and, in my opinion, looks much better than a wrap.

When it comes to stains, there are essentially two types: oil-based and water-based. In general, the choice between them is mostly a matter of preference. Here are the typical differences:

Oil-Based Stains:

• Take longer to dry.
• Penetrate the wood more deeply, resulting in a vibrant appearance.
• Usually available in traditional colors like black, brown, and gray.
• Require paint thinner for cleanup.
• Not as environmentally friendly.

Water-Based Stains:

• Dry more quickly.
• Offer a wider color selection, including shades like yellow, purple, and pink.
• Require the wood grain to be raised beforehand.
• More environmentally friendly.
• Clean up with soap and water.

You can find staining products at stores such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, or Rockler, all of which are suitable options. Again, the choice depends on personal preference. Personally, I prefer water-based finishes. My recommended product is General Finishes Dye Stain, which is water-based and offers a great range of colors. They produce high-quality stains that can be applied with a brush or sprayed on. If possible, it’s a good idea to test the stain on a scrap piece of wood before applying it.

Before applying the stain, I highly recommend covering the inside of the shell with foil to prevent any seepage. Then, I typically brush the stain over the entire drum shell and let it sit for 5-10 minutes to allow it to soak in. Afterward, I wipe the shell with a clean rag to remove any excess stain that hasn’t soaked in. If the color appears too light, you can always apply another coat.

Once you’ve completed the staining process, follow the instructions on the label regarding drying time before applying a topcoat. Personally, I prefer not to rush the drying process and let the shell sit for a few days, especially during colder months, just to be safe.

Here is a video of me doing this process for a drum. https://www.instagram.com/p/B5frt70ANE0/?img_index=1