Abstract: A method is provided for effecting a color change in wood or a wood-grained article, and the article prepared thereby. The method includes the steps of applying to a nitrocellulose-finished wood article a composition that includes a water-based dye or pigment and a water-based varnish or lacquer over the nitrocellulose coating, without physically or chemically stripping the nitrocellulose layer. In an alternative embodiment, a wood-grained article is refinished by application of the water-based dye or pigment and a water-based varnish or Lacquer to its surface.