Below is explained how to stain poplar a walnut colour. In a jar place one pennyworth of vandyke brown and two pieces of common washing soda the size of large walnuts. Pour in gradually, stirring the while, lpt. of boiling soft water. Strain through muslin or coarse flannel to ensure thorough mixing. Apply the solution whilst still hot with a brush, working the way of the grain; rub well in, and wipe off the surplus with rag. Several coats may be given till a good depth of tone is gained. When quite dry, smooth with fine worn glass-paper, then wipe over with raw linseed oil. The work is then ready for polishing. If the article is small, grain idlers maybe dispensed with. On close-grained woods it will generally suffice to apply one or more coats of spirit varnish as polishing proceeds.