Sherwin-Williams Wood Stain Color Chart: 240+ SW Codes (2026)

For the full picture, see our complete wood finishing guide.

Sherwin-Williams sells over 240 wood stain colors across its interior Wood Classics/Minwax line and exterior WoodScapes/SuperDeck lines — but each SW color code maps to a specific product line, so the same name can look different between an oil-based and water-based formula. Picking the wrong line means a mismatched touch-up or a color that reads 10–20% darker than the chip. This chart covers real SW codes by tone, which line each belongs to, and how to get an exact match in-store.

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Why the Sherwin Williams Wood Stain Chart Matters

Choosing a stain color can feel overwhelming given how many options Sherwin-Williams offers. That’s exactly what the Sherwin-Williams wood stain chart is designed to solve. It’s a visual guide that lays out all the stain colors and opacities available, helping you see exactly how each shade looks on different types of wood.

This chart isn’t just a pretty picture—it’s a practical tool. It shows you how colors like Burnished Walnut or Classic Cherry appear on oak, pine, or cedar. It also helps you understand the difference between transparent, semi-transparent, and solid stains. It works for planning anything from a deck makeover to a custom furniture piece — and if you’re deciding between stain and paint for wood floors specifically, see our guide on Sherwin-Williams wood floor paint.

Sherwin-Williams Stain Colors: Browse by Tone

Whether you’re finishing a deck, refinishing furniture, or staining cabinets, the fastest way to find the right color is to browse Sherwin-Williams stain colors by tone. Below is a complete quick-reference chart — use the SW code at any Sherwin-Williams store or the SW color tool online to pull up an exact swatch.

Warm Brown & Walnut Tones

The most popular category — works beautifully on oak, pine, and maple:

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best Use
SW 3124	Special Walnut	Classic medium brown	All-purpose interior — #1 pick for 2026
SW 3119	Burnished Walnut	Rich warm walnut	Furniture, cabinets, floors
SW 3126	Gunstock	Warm reddish-brown	Cabinets, staircases, doors
SW 3123	Pecan	Light-to-medium warm brown	Light woods, pine floors
SW 3108	Early American	Warm amber-brown	Oak floors & classic furniture

📊 SW 3124 Special Walnut (Minwax MW224) was named Minwax’s 2026 Color of the Year. — Source: Sherwin-Williams, Special Walnut MW224

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Natural, Golden & Honey Tones

Great for keeping wood looking fresh and light — popular for Scandinavian or farmhouse styles:

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best Use
SW 3133	Golden Oak	Warm honey gold	Classic oak furniture & floors
SW 3118	Fruitwood	Light golden tan with warmth	Pine & light-grain woods
SW 3021	Spicewood	Warm golden tan	Sun-exposed exterior decks
SW 3524	Chestnut	Warm medium brown	Traditional deck & fence look

Dark, Espresso & Ebony Tones

Bold choices for dramatic contrast — trending on modern furniture and dark flooring:

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best Use
SW 3130	Dark Walnut	Deep cool brown	Dramatic furniture & statement floors
SW 3135	New Ebony	Deep near-black	Bold modern furniture & accents
SW 3007	Lodge Brown	Deep chocolate brown	Exterior — cabin & forested settings
SW 3031	Cabin Brown	Rich dark brown	Exterior — high-traffic decks

Gray & Weathered Tones (Exterior)

Gray stain colors have surged in popularity for modern and coastal exteriors:

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best Use
SW 3027	Driftwood	Silvery weathered gray	Coastal decks & beach-style siding
SW 3010	Woodsmoke Gray	Medium gray	Modern farmhouse exterior
SW 3540	Mountain Ash	Cool blue-gray	Coastal & shaded decks
SW 3541	Harbor Mist	Soft light gray	Beach house or modern deck

Red, Cedar & Mahogany Tones

Classic warm reds that pair naturally with cedar and redwood:

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best Use
SW 3501	Redwood	Deep red-brown	Cedar & redwood decks — classic look
SW 3511	Cedar Bark	Warm reddish-brown	Cedar siding & fences
SW 3034	Cedar	Classic cedar red	Matching cedar wood tone (solid)
SW 3045	Russet Brown	Deep rusty warm brown	Bold, warm exterior color

Pro tip: Always test your chosen SW stain color on a small scrap of the same wood species first — the final result can look 10–20% darker or lighter than the chip depending on wood porosity and grain.

Types of Sherwin Williams Wood Stains

Sherwin-Williams breaks its stains down into clear categories based on opacity. Let’s explore the main types you’ll find on their wood stain chart. Each has its own vibe and purpose, so you can pick what works best for your project.

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Transparent Stains

Transparent stains are like a light veil for your wood. They add a hint of color while letting the natural grain shine through. Transparent stains work well on cedar and other naturally attractive woods, adding warmth without hiding the grain. These stains are perfect for projects where you want the wood’s natural beauty to take center stage, like outdoor furniture or interior paneling. However, they offer less protection against weather, so they’re best for indoor projects or low-exposure outdoor pieces.

Semi-Transparent Stains

If you want a bit more color but still love seeing the wood grain, semi-transparent stains are your friend. I’ve used these on decks and fences because they strike a great balance between style and protection. The Sherwin Williams chart shows how these stains add richer tones while still letting some grain show through. They’re durable, weather-resistant, and great for outdoor projects that face sun and rain.

Semi-Solid Stains

Semi-solid stains are a step up in coverage. They add a bold pop of color while letting just a hint of the wood grain peek through. Semi-solid stains are a strong choice for weathered surfaces like old porch railings, restoring color while still showing some wood texture. These are great for exterior surfaces that need extra protection but still want a touch of wood character.

Solid Stains

Solid stains are like paint’s cousin—they provide full coverage and hide most of the wood grain. Solid stains are the most effective option for making a weathered deck look new again, since they fully hide surface imperfections. These stains are ideal for outdoor projects that need maximum protection from the elements, like siding or decks in harsh climates. The Sherwin Williams chart offers a range of bold colors, so you can get creative while keeping your wood safe.

Stain Type	Coverage Level	Best For	Protection Level
Transparent	Light, shows grain	Indoor furniture, low-exposure outdoor	Low
Semi-Transparent	Moderate, some grain	Decks, fences, outdoor furniture	Moderate
Semi-Solid	High, minimal grain	Porches, railings, exterior wood	High
Solid	Full, hides grain	Decks, siding, high-exposure surfaces	Very High

“The less transparent a stain is, the more protection it will provide.”

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Sherwin-Williams Wood Stain Color Chart: Complete Color List

Sherwin-Williams offers over 240 stain colors through their product lines — for Minwax colors see our Minwax stain color chart. Below is a practical color chart organized by type — these are the actual SW color codes you can bring to any Sherwin-Williams store to get an exact match. For the full interactive chart, visit the official Sherwin-Williams stain colors page.

Popular Semi-Transparent Exterior Stain Colors

Semi-transparent stains let the natural wood grain show through while adding color and UV protection. Best for new or well-maintained wood surfaces.

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best For
SW 3501	Redwood	Deep red-brown	Cedar & redwood decks
SW 3502	Mission Wall	Warm tan-brown	Adobe or Southwestern style
SW 3507	Riverwood	Medium brown-gray	Weathered, natural look
SW 3511	Cedar Bark	Warm reddish-brown	Cedar siding & fences — see our cedar staining guide
SW 3518	Hawthorne	Neutral tan-gray	Modern exterior look
SW 3522	Banyan Brown	Deep earthy brown	Hiding weathered wood
SW 3524	Chestnut	Warm medium brown	Traditional deck look
SW 3540	Mountain Ash	Cool blue-gray	Coastal & shaded decks
SW 3541	Harbor Mist	Soft gray	Beach house or modern deck
SW 3542	Charwood	Dark charcoal gray	Contemporary dark look

Popular Solid Exterior Stain Colors (WoodScapes)

Solid stains give full coverage — best for older decks with wear, discoloration, or imperfections. Here are the most-searched SW solid stain colors with their codes:

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best For
SW 3001	Shagbark	Warm light brown	Natural, rustic decks
SW 3007	Lodge Brown	Deep chocolate brown	Cabin or forested settings
SW 3010	Woodsmoke Gray	Medium gray	Modern farmhouse decks
SW 3021	Spicewood	Warm golden tan	Sun-exposed decks
SW 3027	Driftwood	Silvery weathered gray	Coastal or beach style
SW 3031	Cabin Brown	Rich dark brown	High-traffic decks
SW 3034	Cedar	Classic cedar red	Matching cedar wood tone
SW 3045	Russet Brown	Deep rusty brown	Bold, warm color

WoodScapes Stain Colors: Sherwin-Williams Exterior Line

WoodScapes is Sherwin-Williams’ dedicated exterior house stain — their deck-specific line is SuperDeck. WoodScapes product line — designed specifically for siding, fences, and outdoor wood surfaces (not just decks). It comes in both solid and semi-transparent formulas and offers a wide range of nature-inspired colors. If you’re staining the exterior of your home or a fence, WoodScapes is likely the product line you’ll be looking at in-store.

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Most searched WoodScapes colors

SW Code	Color Name	Type	Community Notes
SW 3540	Mountain Ash	Semi-transparent	Popular for gray-toned siding
SW 3502	Mission Wall	Semi-transparent	Warm Southwestern look
SW 3001	Shagbark	Solid	Most searched solid color
SW 3021	Spicewood	Solid	Great for cedar siding
SW 3507	Riverwood	Semi-transparent	Natural weathered wood look

Note: WoodScapes colors can be tinted by your local Sherwin-Williams store to match nearby paint colors. If you want to coordinate your deck or fence with your home’s exterior paint, bring the paint chip and they can custom mix a close match.

Interior vs. Exterior Stains

Not all stains are created equal, and Sherwin Williams makes it clear which ones are for indoor or outdoor use. Interior stains lack the UV and moisture protection outdoor projects need — using one outside leads to rapid fading and water damage. Here’s the breakdown.

Interior Stains

Interior stains are designed for furniture, cabinets, or paneling. They focus on enhancing the wood’s beauty without worrying about weather. Sherwin-Williams’ Minwax interior stains are a popular choice for furniture pieces like coffee tables, known for a smooth, rich finish. These stains are easy to apply and come in a variety of colors to match your home’s vibe.

Popular Sherwin-Williams interior wood stain colors

SW Code	Color Name	Tone	Best For
SW 3119	Burnished Walnut	Rich warm walnut	Furniture, cabinets, floors
SW 3120	Walnut Wainscot	Medium warm walnut	Paneling & trim
SW 3135	New Ebony	Deep near-black	Bold modern furniture
SW 3118	Fallow	Light golden tan	Pine & light woods
SW 3124	Special Walnut	Classic medium brown	All-purpose interior — our top pick for 2026
SW 3108	Early American	Warm amber-brown	Oak floors & furniture
SW 3130	Dark Walnut	Deep cool brown	Dramatic furniture & floors
SW 3133	Golden Oak	Warm honey gold	Classic oak finish

Tip: Special Walnut (SW 3124) is one of the most universally loved interior wood stain colors — it works well on oak, pine, and maple, giving a rich warm tone without going too dark. It’s Sherwin-Williams’ most recommended all-purpose interior stain for 2026.

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Exterior Stains

Exterior stains, like SuperDeck or Woodscapes, are built to withstand the elements. I’ve used Woodscapes on my deck, and it’s held up beautifully against sun, rain, and even snow. These stains often have added UV protection and mildew resistance, which is a game-changer for outdoor projects. The chart clearly labels which stains are exterior-ready, so you won’t mix them up.

How to Use the Sherwin Williams Wood Stain Chart

Using the chart is simple, but I’ve got a few tricks to make it even easier. First, visit a Sherwin Williams store or their website to get a physical or digital copy of the chart. Look at the color swatches and note how they vary by wood type. If you’re working with oak, check the oak samples; if it’s pine, focus on those.

Next, think about your project’s needs. Are you staining a deck that gets tons of sun? Go for a solid or semi-solid exterior stain. Crafting an indoor bookshelf? A transparent interior stain might be perfect. Bringing a small piece of your project wood to the store to compare against the in-store chart is the most reliable way to match tones, since stain color can look 10–20% darker or lighter on your actual wood than on the printed chip.

Sherwin Williams also offers online tools where you can visualize colors on virtual projects. I’ve played around with these tools, and they’re great for getting a rough idea before you commit. But nothing beats seeing the chart in person and talking to a store employee—they’re usually super knowledgeable.

Application Tips for Perfect Results

Applying stain is an art, and I’ve picked up some tips over the years. First, always prep your wood. Sand it smooth and clean it thoroughly to remove dust or old finishes. Not sure about sanding stained wood? Read our guide on can you sand stained wood. Skipping the test-patch step is a common cause of streaky, uneven results.

When applying, use a brush or cloth for even coverage. A foam brush works well for small projects, while a natural bristle brush covers larger surfaces like decks more efficiently. Work in small sections to avoid lap marks, and always follow the wood grain. The Sherwin Williams chart often includes application tips for each stain type, so check those out.

For exterior projects, always seal the wood after staining.

For exterior projects, check the weather forecast. Staining right before rain is one of the most common mistakes, since the stain won’t cure properly before moisture hits it. Aim for a dry, mild day. Also, apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick one—it gives a smoother finish and better protection.

Water-Based vs. Oil-Based Stains

Sherwin Williams offers both water-based and oil-based stains, and each has its perks. I’ve used both, and here’s what I’ve found.

Water-Based Stains

Water-based stains are eco-friendly and low in VOCs (those nasty chemicals that smell bad). They dry faster, which is great if you’re impatient like me. Water-based stains typically dry within a few hours, making them a practical choice for indoor furniture projects. They’re also easier to clean up with soap and water. However, they might not penetrate the wood as deeply, so they’re better for indoor projects.

Oil-Based Stains

Oil-based stains sink deep into the wood, giving a rich, long-lasting finish. Oil-based stains are known for holding up well under years of foot traffic, which is why they remain popular for porches. They’re great for outdoor projects because they’re super durable. The downside? They take longer to dry, and cleanup requires mineral spirits. The Sherwin Williams chart labels which stains are water-based versus oil-based, so you Moscato check the labels to confirm.

Environmental Considerations

Sherwin-Williams offers several eco-friendly, low-VOC stain options for buyers concerned about environmental impact. Many of their stains, especially water-based ones, have low VOCs, which means less harm to the environment and your health. Checking the product label for VOC content before buying is worthwhile, since Sherwin-Williams lists it clearly on most cans. For outdoor projects, I’ve found that Sherwin Williams exterior stains, like SuperDeck, balance eco-friendliness with durability, so you don’t have to sacrifice quality for sustainability.

Matching Stain to Wood Type

Different woods take stain differently, and the Sherwin Williams chart is a great guide for this. For example, oak soaks up stain evenly, giving a consistent color. Pine, on the other hand, can look blotchy if you don’t use a pre-stain conditioner. Softwoods like pine absorb stain unevenly without a pre-stain wood conditioner, which is why conditioning is recommended before staining. Cedar and redwood have natural oils that can resist stain, so a light sanding helps. The chart’s samples show these differences, so you can plan accordingly.

Maintenance and Longevity

Stains aren’t a one-and-done deal, especially for outdoor projects. I’ve found that Sherwin Williams exterior stains, like Woodscapes, last longer if you maintain them properly. For decks, a fresh coat every 2-3 years is the general recommendation, depending on weather exposure. A light sanding and cleaning before restaining keeps the finish smooth. Indoor stains last considerably longer than exterior ones, though an occasional polish keeps furniture looking fresh. The chart’s durability ratings help you choose a stain that matches your maintenance schedule.

Where to Find the Sherwin Williams Wood Stain Chart

The easiest way to get the Sherwin-Williams wood stain color chart is to visit your local Sherwin-Williams store and ask for a physical stain color card — it’s free. You can also browse all stain colors on the official Sherwin-Williams website and use their virtual wood visualizer to preview colors on different wood types before buying.

If you’d prefer to order stain without visiting a store, most popular SW stain colors are also — helpful for comparing prices and reading buyer reviews before committing to a color.

Pairing Stains with Topcoats

A good stain deserves a good topcoat. For interior projects, a clear polyurethane topcoat seals the stain and adds shine. For exterior projects, Sherwin Williams offers clear sealers like SuperDeck Clear Sealer, though I’ve heard mixed reviews about its longevity. Apply any topcoat only after the stain has dried fully — check the product label for exact timing. This extra layer protects your stain and keeps it looking vibrant for years.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

I’ve made my share of staining blunders, so let me save you some trouble. Don’t skip sanding—it’s crucial for a smooth finish. Avoid applying too much stain at once; it can get sticky and uneven. Rushing a deck project without working in small sections is a common cause of visible lap marks. Also, test your color on a scrap piece first—the chart is a guide, but your wood might react differently. Lastly, don’t ignore drying times. Patience is key!

Why Sherwin Williams Stands Out

Sherwin-Williams remains a leading choice among woodworkers for its combination of quality and color variety. Their stains are easy to apply, durable, and come in colors that suit any style. The wood stain chart is a big part of that—it’s user-friendly and packed with options. Plus, their store staff are always ready to answer questions, which is a lifesaver when you’re stuck choosing between two shades.

Conclusion: Transform Your Woodworking with Sherwin Williams

The Sherwin-Williams wood stain chart is a genuinely practical reference for planning any staining project. It takes the guesswork out of choosing colors, helps me match stains to wood types, and ensures my projects look professional and last long. Whether you’re refreshing a deck or crafting a heirloom table, this chart guides you to the perfect finish. So grab a copy, experiment with samples, and let your creativity shine. Your wood deserves to look its best, and with Sherwin Williams, you’re halfway there!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Sherwin Williams wood stain chart?

It’s a visual guide showing all the stain colors and opacities Sherwin Williams offers. It helps you see how colors look on different woods, making it easier to choose the right stain for your project.

How do I choose between transparent and solid stains?

Transparent stains show the wood grain and are great for natural looks, but they offer less protection. Solid stains cover the grain and provide maximum weather resistance, ideal for outdoor projects like decks. Before staining, learn the best way to clean a wood deck for proper prep.

Can I use interior stains outside?

No, interior stains aren’t built for weather exposure. Using an interior-rated stain outdoors is a common mistake that leads to quick fading and water damage. Use exterior stains like Woodscapes for outdoor projects to ensure durability.

How often should I restain my deck?

It depends on the stain type and weather exposure, but most Sherwin-Williams exterior stains need restaining every 2-3 years. If you’re at that stage, our guide on how to restain a deck covers the full process. Regular cleaning and light sanding before reapplying keeps it looking fresh.

Are Sherwin Williams stains eco-friendly?

Many of their stains, especially water-based ones, have low VOCs, which are better for the environment and your health. Check the label for VOC content to be sure.

Where can I get the Sherwin Williams wood stain chart?

Visit a Sherwin Williams store for a physical copy or check their website for a digital version. For a comparison, you can also explore the Behr wood stain color chart. Seeing swatches in person at a Sherwin-Williams store remains the most reliable way to judge a color before buying.