Pigment Cassel Extract | Walnut Stain

Natural Walnut Stain (Brou de Noix) – Plant-Based Brown Pigment for Wood, Patina & Fine Art

Natural Walnut Stain (Brou de Noix) is a traditional plant-based pigment derived from the outer husk of the walnut. Valued for its warm, deep, translucent brown tone, it is ideal for wood staining, patina finishes, drawing, watercolor, cabinetmaking, and decorative techniques.

Offering rich tonal variations from light brown to dark walnut depending on dilution, walnut stain creates an authentic, organic, and timeless aesthetic. It penetrates wood fibers without obscuring the grain, making it perfect for aging effects, washes, and natural finishes with an artisanal character.

Walnut stain is widely used in:

• Wood staining and cabinetry

• Patina and aging techniques

• Drawing inks and washes

• Watercolor and calligraphy

• Decorative plaster and lime-based finishes

Due to its penetrating and transparent nature, it enhances wood grain without forming a surface film. It can be diluted with water to achieve tonal variation and fixed or modified with natural binders such as gum arabic, casein, or limewash systems.

Used for centuries in fine arts and restoration, walnut stain remains a staple material for artists, craftsmen, and designers seeking a natural brown pigment with warmth and depth.

Technical Characteristics

• Origin: European walnut husks 

• Type: Natural plant extract / dye

• Color: Transparent warm brown to deep dark walnut

• Chemical component: Natural Brown 8, Humic acids, sodium salts,

• Solubility: Water-soluble

• Transparency: High

• Lightfastness: Moderate (recommended for interior use or protected applications)

• pH sensitivity: Slight tonal variation depending on substrate and binder

As a natural dye rather than a mineral pigment, walnut stain does not offer the same UV stability as iron oxides. For exterior applications, protective sealing is recommended. Color variation may occur between batches due to the agricultural nature of the raw material.

SAFETY DATA SHEET

IC:  NBr8.77727

CAS:  72669-22-8

Country of origin : Germany

It is often used to give an aged or antique look to wood and wood furniture. When diluted in water it can be applied on surfaces to give it an additional antique flair , very popular among wood workers. It is an excellent stain to use under Milk paint application on wood surfaces. 

This pigment can be used in interior or exterior wood applications.If used for an exterior project, a varnish or sealer must be applied for protection.

The shade produced when dry depends on how much the pigment is diluted with water during application and how many layers of stain are applied. The pigment can produce shade of light to dark walnut colour. 

To Use: Dilute the pigment with lukewarm water and mix until a homogenous solution is obtained. For a light walnut stain, dilute 30 g of pigment with 1 Litre of water. For a dark walnut stain, dilute 90 g of pigment with 1 Litre of water. After dilution, add some Ethyl alcohol to the mixture and apply generously in the direction of the grain of the wood with a natural brush or cotton cloth. Wipe away excess stain with a cloth. Let dry 2-4 hours. Apply a second coat if required. It is recommended to lightly sand the surface before applying a protective coat.