Graining

Graining can be used on wide range of materials including non-wood surfaces such as MDF or dry wall, as well soft wood that has a small grain. Graining has very little practical use so is solely for aesthetic purposes. If done properly it can give bland, unappealing surfaces the appearance of high quality oak.

Graining is achieved by painting and glazing a surface (normally with latex paints) then using specialised graining tools such as wood grain rockers and combs to mark the paint to resemble wood grain.

Graining can be a difficult process so it might be an idea to have plenty of practice on scrap materials before attempting it on the intended product. Thankfully, however, the final appearance of the product does not have to be exact or perfect, leaving room for user error.