Inlay & stain

[TommyC]

i want to stain a box lid with some fret work on it , but i want to do some clay inlay ..my Question is Do i do my inlay and bake it first or do i stain it then do my inlay and bake it ?

[sgood]

Hi Tommy, I seldom use stain so I'm not sure how well it will work. Just do a little experimenting first before you commit to the final project.

[dunk]

Rather than take a chance on stain bleeding into the inlay clay.  I think I would do the staining first.  Baking will only help to cure the stain but you do not want the stain changing your clay color...Just my 2 cents.

Let us know how it turns out...

[Dragonlord85]

I would stain it first and make sure the stain has dried completely (usually 2 days) before putting the clay in and baking it. If the stain is not completely dry when you place it in the oven to bake you will boil the stain and it will ruin the clay. I know this from experience since I ruined one piece already.

[sp_343]

Stain first, let it dry, then clay, then bake.

[Dawie]

I'm with the guys on staining first. Let us know how you got on.
David