Staining the laminate is very different from the wood. After stripping and sanding you need to prime the laminate with a good acrylic primer, Zinsser 123 or Gripper. The primer should be tinted to a medium or light tan. This will create a background color for the stain.

Staining laminate isn't as easy as wood. You will need to create the wood grain. Tools and materials needed are gel stain and a graining tool.

Once all of the stain is dry you can apply a clear finish, varnish work well.