[header] How to make bookends [title] Stain your woodblocks. [step] Spread newspaper to cover the surface of your work area and use a paint brush or clean cloth to gently apply chestnut-coloured wood stain. Be sure to apply it in the direction of the wood on all vertical sides of your blocks. 
Allow the stain to dry for a couple of hours. You may add a second coat but one should be fine.