Vandyke Crystals

Vandyke crystals have been used as a traditional method for staining hardwoods for centuries, more recently, they have also been used on pine and other soft woods. Vandyke crystals produce a natural water based wood dye that is made from walnut husks that have been through a boiling process.

Producing a colour that can range from a very light to a dark brown, the shade of this natural wood stain can be altered by changing the concentration of vandyke crystals to water.

Contrary to popular belief, vandyke crystals are best dissolved in cold water rather than warm or hot which is the usual recommendation for mixing. One method is to place the vandyke crystals in a container then add 500mls of water, leave overnight then give the mixture an occasional stirring or shake.

When ready, the made up stain can be applied by sponge, paint brush or with a spray gun system. As well as varying the depth of colour with the concentration of vandyke crystals to water, the colour can also be adjusted by adding one of our concentrated dyes which are available in red, yellow, orange, blue, black, brown and white.

Once applied, the vandyke wood stain should be allowed to dry for a minimum of 4 hours before finishing with a wood wax, oil or wood varnish.