One of the most common questions we receive at Sawyer and the Grove is about our stain options. With several color systems available, and many of them featuring similar name, it can be confusing to understand how they differ. While each collection offers beautiful possibilities, they are not interchangeable. Here’s a closer look at the four stain options we offer and what makes each one unique.
OCS (Ohio Certified Stains)
Ohio Certified Stains (OCS) is the oldest and most widely adopted standardized stain system. Used throughout Ohio, Indiana, and Pennsylvania, OCS has become a familiar and trusted option within the furniture and woodworking industries.
OCS colors generally lean toward more traditional wood tones, making them a popular choice for timeless, classic designs. Because of their long-standing popularity, many homeowners and designers are already familiar with these shades.
PCL (Preferred Color List by Spectrum Finishing)
The Preferred Color List (PCL) from Spectrum Finishing is a newer color system that offers a broader selection of contemporary tones. PCL is known for keeping up with current design trends and regularly introducing new colors to its lineup.
At present, PCL is also the only collection among the three major systems to offer a colored solid stain, giving customers even more flexibility when creating a distinctive look. If you’re looking for modern hues and a wider range of options, PCL is often the best place to start.
FinishWorks Premier Color Collection
While FinishWorks manufactures the stains used across multiple color systems, they also offer their own Premier Color Collection, identified by the FC label.
These colors tend to sit somewhere between OCS and PCL in terms of style, though they generally lean more toward traditional tones. FinishWorks provides a versatile selection that bridges classic and contemporary preferences.
It’s also important to note that both OCS and PCL colors can be applied using FinishWorks products, making FinishWorks an important part of the finishing process regardless of which color system you choose.
Sawyer and the Grove’s Exclusive Stain Collection
At Sawyer and the Grove, we noticed that many designers and homeowners were asking for softer, more muted versions of popular stain colors. In response, we developed our own exclusive stain collection.
Our proprietary stains are inspired primarily by OCS colors but have been carefully adjusted to create more subdued, refined tones. These custom variations are now offered as standard options, providing a unique palette that reflects today’s preference for understated, versatile finishes.
Which Stain Collection Is Right for You?
Each stain system offers something different:
- OCS: Traditional, widely recognized colors.
- PCL: Modern tones with the largest and most trend-driven selection.
- FinishWorks (FC): A balanced collection that blends traditional and contemporary styles.
- Sawyer and the Grove Exclusive Stains: Muted, designer-inspired variations created to complement today’s interiors.
No matter which direction you choose, the team at Sawyer and the Grove is here to help you find the perfect finish for your space. Understanding the differences between these stain collections can make the selection process easier and ensure your furniture or cabinetry reflects the exact look you envision.