For Forum Question: Stained Cork

Quickie pic of a stained cork handle on an unfinished fly rod.

Briefly the procedure used is as follows:

Apply HOT (at least 90 Celsius) tea solution in several coats until the desired shade is achieved.

When dry apply a single coat of shellac in absolute alcohol and allow to soak in. This seals and drives the stain (tannins) into the cork.

Next, apply polymerized tung oil sealer followed by at least six very thin coats (i.e wipe on then wipe off) polymerized tung oil.

Allow to cure and then rub down with rottenstone in mineral oil. Apply a coat of paste wax and buff.

It should be noted that the staining is superficial and I have no idea how well it will withstand heavy use, although the tung oil should give good durability.

The cork handle is fully waterproof.