Wood stain to cover plaster splashes?

[Deleted User]

Hello,

Plasterer has plastered my ceiling, but got quite a bit on the beams too. I don't want to go into the whole 'he should have used masking tape / he should come back and sort it out' discussion. I have managed to clean most of it off, however as the beams are untreated wood, there is a 'bloom' remaining which will not go. A decorator suggested that a water based woodstain will sink into the wood and stain the plaster to disguise, rather than cover it.
Has anyone else had a similar experience with any suggestions they can offer please?

Many thanks.

flashg67

You might end up with patches of different coloured wood where you've stained it?

I think you'll still see the patches anyway as it won't soak it up fully where the plaster remains. You could try it in a hidden part, but sanding would be my suggestion if you haven't tried already

[Deleted User]

I see. I can't sand them - they are rough cut and it would completely ruin them. Most of the plaster is off - it's just a powdery bloom that remains. The decorator said the stain would disguise, rather than cover it completely. The distance they are means they aren't going to be scrutinised, I just want to tidy them up, without painting them...

FreeBear

A scrub with wire wool and/or a soft wire brush (the type used for suede shoes) may well remove most of the plaster. Using a wood stain will still leave a visible patch I'm afraid.