Minwax Wood Finish Ebony Stain Gallon - Deep, Even Interior Color

In this review of Minwax Wood Finish 710130000 in Ebony, the bottom line is simple: this is a reliable oil-based stain for interior wood projects where a deep, even color and visible grain are important. It stands out for its rich even color and rapid penetration that lets users stain one day and move on to finishing the next. For DIYers refinishing furniture, cabinets or doors who want predictable coverage and easy application, it delivers a professional-looking dark tone without complex technique.

Key Features

• Deep penetrating formula: The oil-based stain soaks into wood pores to enhance the natural grain rather than just sitting on the surface.
• Quick drying: The special formula penetrates within five minutes and can be dry to the touch in about two hours, enabling faster project turnaround.
• Even color performance: The product resists lapping for a more consistent finish across panels and planks when applied correctly.
• Adjustable depth: Wiping times of 5-15 minutes let users control how dark or rich the ebony color becomes, and additional coats deepen tone.
• Easy application: Can be applied with a clean cloth or wood stain brush in the direction of the grain for predictable results.
• Interior use: Formulated for unfinished or stripped interior wood like furniture, cabinets, doors, trim and floors.

Who It's For

This stain is best for homeowners, hobbyists and tradespeople working on interior wood where a dark, dramatic appearance is desired. It suits projects such as refinishing furniture, cabinetry, trim or interior doors where showing the grain with a deep tone matters.

Those seeking a water-based system, exterior durability, or a lighter natural finish should look elsewhere; this product is an oil-based interior stain designed for bare or stripped wood and requires proper ventilation and a compatible topcoat for protection.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Provides a rich dark color that enhances grain and gives consistent coverage.
• Penetrates quickly and dries fast, enabling faster project completion in one day.
• Application is straightforward with a cloth or brush and allows easy control of color depth.
• Good coverage on a variety of interior bare or stripped wood surfaces.

Cons

• Dark ebony can read differently on some woods and under some lights; a sample test is recommended.
• As an oil-based product, it requires solvent cleanup and is not the choice for those who prefer water-based finishes.

Specifications

Product name	Minwax Wood Finish 710130000, Ebony Stain, Gallon
Type	Oil-based wood stain for interior use
Color	Ebony (dark mix of brown and black)
Dry time	Penetrates in about 5 minutes, dries in roughly 2 hours
Application	Clean cloth or wood stain brush, wipe excess after 5-15 minutes
Best for	Unfinished or stripped wood: furniture, cabinets, doors, trim, floors

Our Verdict

Minwax Wood Finish in Ebony is a dependable choice for interior projects that need a deep, consistent color and visible grain. Fast penetration and straightforward application make it good value for DIYers and pros who want reliable results and the flexibility to control tone, though those preferring water-based products or exterior use should consider alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should I wait before wiping away excess?
Wait between 5 and 15 minutes depending on desired darkness; longer wait yields a richer color.

Can this be used on floors?
Yes, it can be used on interior bare or stripped wood floors, but follow with an appropriate finish for wear protection.

What application tools work best?
A clean cloth or a wood stain brush applied in the direction of the grain produces the most consistent results.