Be carefull staining pine. It often times turns out blotchy even though your strips might look identical in color/grain. When using an oil based stain (which I wouldn't recommend under epoxy)on softwoods, use a wood conditioner such as Miniwax Wood Conditioner before staining. For best adhesion results under epoxy, use a water based stain which is available either pre mixed or in powered form. Apply as evenly as possible with a rag or large brush. The secret is to not allow any stain to "puddle" or sit in an area any longer than other areas. Softwoods will usually absorb stain rapidly so its safer to apply more "drier" coats than one heavier wet coat.

Lance Alldrin Corning High School - Woodshop

: I am just finishing a Wee Lassie canoe built from pine to keep the cost low.
: I was thinking of staining the hull before laying the glass and epoxy. Can
: anyone offer any advice as to what type or brand of stain can be used. I
: will be using Raka epoxy with 350 hardner. This will be my first time
: using Raka epoxy too. I used Mertons on my last S&G with great results but
: wanted to try the Raka to compare results. Has anyone used the two? Are
: there any noticeable differences? Thanks in advance for any feedback. Don