Hey--working on a new series of rods and had this vision of a VERY dark CORK grip. I've used burnt cork (too heavy for what we're doing) and tea-stained, but has anyone ever used other stain effectively? I'd actually like to end up with a BLACK cork grip to coordinate with other elements of these rods, but before I go out and buy some stain I wondered if any of you have learned any secrets/lessons! :)

Thanks in advance for any and all replies!

John

I have tried several Miniwax stains of late. Not the urethane ones, but the regular stains. If you want black, use black. The mahogony was very dark, as are several other colors I have not tried. The stain tends to eat out some fillers. Unfilled cork looks very good when stained. One coat of stain is enough. One coat of Varathane over the stained cork. Two coats for a varnished look. My current favorite color is cherry. Pecan was also good. Avoid the yellow tints.

Thanks, Don! Do you have any "track record" on grips you've stained this way? Do they wear well (i.e. not wear OFF on the hand or slowly depreciate with time & use)? I never fill my cork anyway as we use super-premium rings, so I should be OK on that end.

Do you think U-40 Cork Seal or tung oil would be an acceptable/preferable alternative to Varathane? I've always been very reticent to varathane my grips for a number of reasons, probably mainly tied to personal preference, though.

Anyway, thanks again!

John

John. Haven't really fished any of the stained cork yet. I would think that the stain would prevent the U-40 from doing much. I don't like the look of Tru-oil over natural cork, did not try over stain. One coat of Varathane does not look like varnish to me, rather adds a nice sheen. Try your colors and final finishes on a throw away grip til you hit the money. I am going to try Red Oak next.

Also do not use the " stain-sealer" All you can use is one coat because of the sealer in it. If you want to put a secount coat on it will not work

Maybe a wood sealer on top of the stain?? Out door type.

After you stain the color you want - apply a single or multiple coat of Tru Oil. I think you will like the appearance and it will provide the wear characteristic needed for the task at hand.
Kenneth Prager

Thanks for your tips, Bill and Kenneth! I was thinking the same re: TruOil...I'll try and remember to do a "follow-up" post after experimenting some! :)

John