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I've been experimenting with DIY wood stain recipes lately, and I'm running into a persistent issue: the stain just isn't drying properly. it's been several days, and it's still tacky to the touch. I've tried recipes using vinegar and steel wool, as well as some with coffee grounds, and both seem to have this problem.
I'm wondering if anyone else has encountered this and has any tips. I made sure to properly sand the wood beforehand (120 then 220 grit) and wiped it down thoroughly with a tack cloth. I'm using pine, could the wood type be a factor? Is there something about the homemade formulations that makes them inherently slower to dry than commercial stains? I also live in a fairly humid environment, which I know can affect drying times.
Would adding a drying agent, like Japan drier (in a very small amount, of course), be a viable solution without drastically altering the color? Any advice or shared experiences would be greatly appreciated! Maybe someone has a secret ingredient for their DIY stain that helps with the drying process.