Stainers, wood

What does a wood stainer do – tasks and work environment

A wood stainer primarily works with treating wood surfaces by applying stains, which involves coloring and enhancing the wood's appearance according to desired shade and texture. The work is often carried out in close collaboration with carpenters or furniture manufacturers and requires great precision to achieve an even and aesthetically pleasing result. The stainer is responsible for selecting the appropriate type of stain and method, preparing surfaces through sanding and cleaning, and ensuring the treatment meets high quality standards. The work environment varies between small workshops, larger factories, and sometimes on-site at customer locations, utilizing both manual and machine techniques to achieve the best possible finish.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for wood stainers has ranged between 30,400 and 33 000 SEK per month. In 2022, the average salary was 30,400 SEK, rising to 33 000 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has slightly decreased to 32 300 SEK, which is about a 2.1% drop from the previous year. This fluctuation may be due to changing demand in craft trades, some over-supply of workers, and a somewhat uncertain economic situation for the wood processing industry. Despite the variations, salary levels remain stable relative to similar craft professions, and there are still good opportunities for those with the right skills to find employment in the field.

Wood stainer, salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 32 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,400 SEK/month (2022 level)
• Highest salary: 33 000 SEK/month (2023 level)
• Hourly wage (average): 194 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 32 300 SEK, no specific data for women
• Regional differences: Data unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a wood stainer, a basic education in woodworking or fine carpentry is usually required, where skills in surface treatment and material knowledge are central. Practical experience is highly valued, and many employers prefer applicants who have completed apprenticeships or internships within the wood and furniture industry. Specialized courses in surface treatment can be advantageous, and a skilled stainer is expected to have a good sense of color, form, and attention to detail.

• Vocational education: High school crafts program, wood specialization
• Practical training: Apprenticeship or on-the-job training
• Courses: Advanced courses in surface treatment and color theory
• Pre-requisites: Precision, color perception, and interest in woodwork
• Experience: Practical experience from carpentry or furniture production is highly meritorious

Common benefits and compensations

Wood stainers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, work clothing, and opportunities for further training within the company. In some cases, bonus schemes, extra vacation days, or collective insurance agreements may be included, depending on the employer and the size of the business.

Competition and challenges

The profession of wood stainers belongs to a group where competition for jobs is relatively high, and there is a certain surplus of labor according to the Employment Service. Nationally, job opportunities are limited, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the next five years. Many employers seek experienced and specialized stainers with proven craftsmanship skills, which can provide advantages in the job market. Automation and more efficient production methods increase demands for flexibility and adaptability. At the same time, staying updated on new materials and techniques is essential to remain competitive.

Tips for aspiring wood stainers

To succeed as a wood stainer, it helps to have a keen eye for detail and a sense of color nuances, which facilitates achieving the desired look on wood surfaces. Precision and patience are crucial, especially when finer work involves multiple steps and long drying times. Being flexible and eager to learn new techniques offers advantages, as materials and methods are constantly evolving. Good teamwork skills are important, as work often occurs in teams with carpenters and other craftsmen. Finally, responsibility and initiative are valued, since many tasks are performed independently and require good judgment to achieve the best results.

Key facts about Wood stainers

• Education level: High school education (crafts program, wood specialization)
• Work environment: Workshop or industrial setting, sometimes on-site at customer locations
• Type of employment: Full-time, shift work, or project-based employment
• Demand: Limited nationwide, some competition
• Special skills: Surface treatment, color theory, material knowledge

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a wood stainer, opportunities may open to take on greater responsibility, such as supervisor or specialist in surface treatment. It is also common for experienced stainers to further educate themselves in furniture design, restoration, or start their own business in wood processing. According to the Employment Service's forecasts for finishing, interior, and furniture carpenters, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, and competition for jobs remains high. Nevertheless, there is a certain need for qualified stainers, especially in niche segments and among employers who value craftsmanship and material knowledge. A total of 340 job openings were reported within the profession in Sweden over the past year.

Frequently asked questions about Wood stainers

• What does a wood stainer earn?
  - A wood stainer has an average salary of 32 300 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a wood stainer?
  - Typically, a high school education in the crafts program with a focus on wood or equivalent experience is required.
• What is the work environment like for a wood stainer?
  - The work environment usually consists of workshops, factories, or on-site at customer locations, involving both manual and machine work.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Only salary information for men is available, 32 300 SEK; specific data for women is unavailable.
• What are the future prospects for a wood stainer?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are limited and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What personal qualities are important for a wood stainer?
  - Attention to detail, patience, color perception, and teamwork skills are highly valued in the profession.
• Are there many job openings for wood stainers?
  - In the past year, 340 job openings have been reported nationally within the profession.