Learn how to stain and finish butcher block countertops while keeping their natural wood color.

It took some trial and error but we figured out a way to stain and seal our butcher block island top without yellowing.
For our kitchen island countertop, we chose butcher block and wanted to keep the natural color of the wood.

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The Right Stain for Butcher Block

Every product we tried on a test piece yellowed to some degree.
Then we discovered the secret ingredient!
White stain!
The white stain covers the yellow tint in the natural wood.
Then sealer adds just about the same amount of yellow color so the butcher block looks like it did before staining.
But it’s protected from spills and stains.
Genius!

Supplies Needed to Finish Butcher Block

• Farmhouse Project Board
• Butcher Block Conditioner
• Minwax Wood Finish – Semi-transparent Pure White
• Waterlox Sealer
• 220 Grit Sandpaper or Sanding Block
• Tack Cloth
• rags or brushes

Steps to Finish Butcher block Counters

1. test entire process on scrap piece of butcher block
2. sand sides and top of butcher block with 220 grit sand paper
3. prep the countertop with wood conditioner, applying it with the grain.
4. lightly sand
5. apply stain, using as many coats as needed for desired look
6. lightly sand
7. apply sealer

Staining Butcher Block

When staining butcher block counters, be sure to sand between each application.
Follow the directions on the can for time between applications.
You can use a rag or paintbrush for staining.
Apply stain in long strokes going with the grain of the wood.

Sealing Butcher Block Countertops

Choose a sealer that is food safe for your butcher block counters.
Follow directions on sealer for appropriate drying times.
Apply sealer with rag using long strokes going with the grain of the wood.
Be sure to wipe up any excess sealer.

(Kitchen) Island Hopping

Next week is reveal week of the Kitchen Island Hop! I can’t wait to show you how our island turned out.
In the meantime, check out how Brooke of Cribbs Style used shiplap to update her builder-grade kitchen island.

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