Is Your Wood Looking “Orange”?

Orange-toned wood finishes, once popular, can now feel outdated in modern interiors. Fortunately, there are effective methods to neutralize these warm hues without completely obscuring the natural beauty of the wood grain. Below are some techniques to consider:

1. Apply a Beige or Blue-Tinted Wash-Coat

One effective approach is to apply a wash-coat of thinned paint to modify the color. This method allows the wood grain to remain visible while toning down the orange hue. Choosing a white paint with a blue tint can be particularly effective, as blue and orange are complementary colors and can neutralize each other.

2. Utilize Liming Wax

Liming wax can be applied to lighten the wood and counteract orange tones. This method involves sanding the wood surface, applying the liming wax to achieve a whitewashed effect, and then sealing it with an appropriate finish.

3. Introduce Cool-Toned Stains

Applying stains with blue or green undertones can help neutralize orange hues in wood. These cool tones counteract the warmth of the orange, resulting in a more balanced appearance.

4. Apply Antiquing Wax

Antiquing wax, especially those with darker tones, can help mute orange hues and provide a more aged, rustic appearance. Applying it over a liming wax base can enhance the effect, creating a layered, weathered look.

5. Use Wood Bleach

For a more intensive approach, wood bleach can strip the existing color from the wood, allowing you to start fresh with a new stain or finish. This method requires careful application and testing, as it can significantly alter the wood’s appearance.

6. Apply a Tan Wash

A tan wash involves applying a diluted tan-colored paint over the wood surface to tone down the orange hue. This technique can create a more neutral and contemporary look while preserving the wood’s natural grain.

By employing these techniques, you can effectively reduce the orange tones in your wood furniture or fixtures, achieving a more modern and aesthetically pleasing appearance without compromising the natural beauty of the wood grain.