Eeeek! Gel stain is a go-to choice for DIYers because it delivers very uniform cover. Gel Stain. Use a gel stain that's darker than the paint color or else it might not show up very well. What's old is chic again. As mentioned earlier, wood stain infiltrates the wood and the colour is saturated from the inside. 6. Once the product has dried, it’s ready for display. Start on the back first so … Work in a well-ventilated area. Give the surface a very light scuff with the sanding block. Now to tackle the front door. Gel stains don't penetrate unfinished wood as deeply as liquid stains, which makes them more suitable for staining wood with knots and other grain irregularities. NOTE: I used Minwax Gel Stain in Walnut. Refresh your home with stylish products handpicked by HGTV editors. I’m using these french doors as an example but gel stains can be used on ANY existing finish. Don rubber or latex gloves (the more fitted, the better control you’ll have), and dip a rag into the stain. Now (thanks to your post) I’m about to tackle two painted staircases! You will notice that it goes on with a milky color. Apply Polyurethane. Prep Work Before Using Gel Stain on Furniture Stop! It won’t look too very good after the first coat but after the second coat, it looks great! After you have done a thorough cleaning on your cabinets, make sure that you … We'll show you how by using gel stain. Wipe the stain evenly across the surface. We’ll show you how to avoid that problem by using gel stain. You can also buy a pack of gel stain pads that work nicely. Tweet. Use the chart below as a guide to selecting your stain. Repeat steps one and two until the stain starts to fade. When you're happy with the sanding, vacuum as much sawdust from the entire project as possible. You can apply it with a natural bristle brush, foam brush or cotton rag (this last one being my favorite way). Includes a video tutoral on how to use gel stain on a dresser that is already stained and finished. We can order online at a handsome sum, so I was thinking someone out there might have made their own version. Once dry, apply the topcoat with a synthetic brush. Follow these quick painting and staining tips to turn your tired, old fence into backyard statement piece. Wiping will allow you to control the evenness and depth of color being applied, as the more you wipe away, the lighter the color level of the stain. Be patient. Do be sure to wear gloves because the stain will get all over your hands. I've tried searching online but no luck, only more gel stain success stories 2 answers Betsy. Stain Application: Using a high quality natural bristle brush, spread a thin, even coat over the entire surface, starting with the raised panel sections. You can apply it with a natural bristle brush, foam brush or cotton rag (this last one being my favorite way). In dry environments, let the first coat cure for 24 hours. Before you start with applying the gel stain, don’t forget to put on your gloves. Enhance and protect your outdoor design by learning how to stain a deck with these simple steps using deck stain. Well that’s it for the best way to apply stain and what to avoid when applying wood stain! With many stain options to choose from, we’re covering all the pros and cons of gel stain and how to use it. Allow to dry in-between coats. Step 2 - Apply the stain Method 1 - Wipe Stain Once the surface is completely dry you can begin applying a coat of gel stain. 1. Liberally apply the hand sanitizer to the stain and let it sit for five to 10 minutes. Unlike traditional stains, the thick product sits atop the surface being stained like paint. 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Always make final brush strokes in the direction of the embossed grain. Put on your gloves, and dip the foam brush into the stain. As it dries, it will dry clear. Fixing Sticky Wood Stain. If you need some ideas on what shade of stain, click here: Stained Furniture Ideas. Although the color was beautiful, because this is patio furniture, I gave everything a second coat. Privacy Policy. Even though I hated the look, I had my reservations about smearing some dark pudding-like goop over top of it. 8. For the floors I applied the stain in staggered areas, that way I would not have a straight line going across the boards, it blended easier with the other areas. Allow to dry for 8 to 10 hours. Apply a liberal coat of Gel Stain with a firm synthetic brush or lint-free rag and work the stain across and into the grain uniformly, feathering out streaks while the stain is wet. As such, be careful not to over-apply the stain to such intersections. Do you have something you want to refinish but preserve the look of the wood grain? Apply Additional Coats. Refinishing your worn kitchen cabinets can be a cost-saving alternative to replacing them. Easily brighten and add rustic charm to furniture and a variety of wood surfaces with these budget-friendly whitewashing and pickling techniques. Prep Surface. Read on for the video transcript and a list of useful links. Did you know that you can apply gel stain directly over paint? To prep the surface, give it a quick wipe down with a fine-grit sandpaper. If you wait too long, it is harder to wipe off. Be sure to have adequate ventilation when working with gel stains, as they contain materials that give off toxic fumes. The gel stain is thick like pudding, not a liquid. You will find that it goes on smoothly and evenly. If you’re applying gel stain to raw wood, you absolutely need to use pre-stain wood conditioner! Read on for the video transcript and a list of useful links. Unfinished furniture is ready to go, while furniture with an existing finish will need to be lightly sanded. As I said earlier, I wouldn’t use gel stain on raw wood, but if you are doing it for some reason, make sure to use a pre-stain conditioner first! Also make certain to discard the cloth that you use properly, as the gel stain is quite flammable. Did you know that you can apply gel stain directly over paint? Also, if you need help with choosing a stain color for your wood, check out 10 favorite wood stain colors and 5 grey wood stain options and white wood stain options!. Once the stain is barely perceptible, toss your item in the wash as soon as you can. Focus on evening out the color to the desired level. Apply stain with a natural bristle brush or foam brush. Gel stain is very thick and the pigments tend to settle at … This is because unlike traditional stain, gel stains don’t penetrate the surface. Wipe brush often on a lint-free rag to remove excess stain. (Update: I decided to paint our kitchen cabinets. • If your door has a raised panel apply stain to the inside center section first and wipe off excess on the edges of the frame panel first. You will want to apply a thick layer of gel stain to your stair railing. However, be sure that the coat is not so thick that it drips down the railing. It’s going to dry looking quite streaky, but don’t worry, subsequent coats will be thinner. Open the can and give the stain a good mix. The stain will retain a thick, pudding-like consistency and dry on the top of the surface. Next, I wet sanded everything using 320 grit sandpaper. You can also apply this stain with a foam paint brush! For a brighter color that preserves the paint's natural hue, apply thinner coats of the gel stain. You can even use gel stain as a glaze on finished wood to provide shading and antiquing effects. Then, you can apply several coats of gel stain until you get your desired color. Before you start with applying the gel stain, don’t forget to put on your gloves. 1. On the downside, gel stain is not available in as many color options as traditional stains. STEP #2 Apply a decent amount to your applicator pad. How to Use Gel Stain. It needs 24-48 hours. This may feel a little bit like spreading thick ketchup and will appear very uneven, which is fin… Kitchen cupboards, cabinets, previously stained furniture, factory finished, wood, veneer or laminate, and even previously painted finishes. Fast-drying, available in 40 beautiful custom colors, soap and water clean-up. Using a cheap foam brush start painting the gel stain in the direction of the grain. Step #4 Applying a Gel Stain. Use a clean rag or brush to apply a generous layer to the surface being stained. This step is very important to ensure an even finished outcome. In this case, consider applying a pre-stain wood conditioner, which seeps into the wood fibers to seal the material and prevent the uneven absorption that causes blotching. Start by adding 5% by volume and increase up to 15% as needed. Once everything is stained, let it dry. Apply a liberal coat of Gel Stain with a firm synthetic brush or lint-free rag and work the stain across and into the grain uniformly, feathering out streaks while stain is wet. Instead, I plan to paint them white, which is a project for this spring. After you have reached your desired look, apply a coat of water-based polyurethane to protect the finished surface. Open windows and doors, or use other means to maintain fresh air flow during application and drying. Wipe brush often on a lint-free rag to remove excess stain. I’ve also had great success using gel varnish. Tips and tricks for applying gel stain to a wood finish to darken the color, without stripping or sanding away the old finish. Our front door is really pretty ~ or was before the wood stain faded. I used a foam brush to apply a thick layer of the stain, then used staining pads to wipe it off. You can apply gel stain to a tabletop and pair it with a neutral base to create that perfect farmhouse or cottage style or even pair it with a brightly colored base for a modern or boho look. While it is messy to work with and has some limitations, it can provide a rich, beautiful color that will show off your woodworking skills. Open your can of gel stain. Learn How to Use Gel Stain. If applying stain exteriorly, top coating with an exterior clear finish is strongly recommended. Remove any excess or globs, especially from crevices, with a rag. Let the stain dry 72+ hours in … Don rubber or latex gloves (the more fitted, the better control you’ll have), and dip a rag into the stain. Have not used on floors but on old white painted trim. Apply the gel stain, wait about 10 minutes and wipe to remove the extra stain. I decided to stain the drawers and paint the body to match the dresser in my room. © 2020 Discovery or its subsidiaries and affiliates. Follow our step-by-step instructions to revitalize your wood furniture with gel stain. The idea behind a gel stain is to spread it onto the wood in a thick layer for a few minutes and then wipe it off with a clean cloth. See the video for more details! 2. The first coat should be thick. Unlike traditional oil-and-water-based stains, gel stain is very easy to apply by wiping it on with a brush versus having to rub it in like most stains. I prefer to apply with a lint-free a staining pad. The denatured alcohol will evaporate quickly and will not discolor the wood. For the application of a gel stain, a thin cloth or foam brush is the best option. 1. Here's how. You might encounter two problems with using gel stains. Join the party! I’m working with these doors propped up against my studio wall. How to Whitewash Wood: Whitewashing and Pickling Techniques, How to Give Your Kitchen Cabinets a Makeover, Fence Revival: A Guide to Painting and Staining, 12 Dining Room Light Fixtures and Chandeliers Under $200, 7 Name-Brand Weighted Blankets on Sale Right Now, What Is a Credenza? Gel stains are easy to apply, and you can control the depth of color in your results. How To Apply Gel Stain To Finished Wood. 5 days to cure. Let the surface rest and dry out thoroughly within the following 30 minutes. Takes approx. To complete the graining process, wait until the first coat of Minwax® Gel Stain is completely dry (24-48 hours), then apply a second coat of Gel Stain with a natural bristle brush in the direction of the grain pattern created. Wiping will allow you to control the evenness and depth of color being applied, as the more you wipe away, the lighter the color level of the stain. As with all stains, test it on a piece of scrap wood or in an inconspicuous area before you start. If the stain is allowed to remain and dry at this junction, it will be noticeable and more difficult to deal with later. Give an old kitchen table new life in a weekend with these simple steps for refinishing wood furniture. Apply Stain. This step is very important to ensure an even finish. Even though gel stain is thick, be sure to stir it. The stain is sure to get all over your hands so there is no other way to stay clean but to protect yourself with suitable gloves. Until I came across your site I had also planned to paint a faux runner! Next, get down to gel staining! Before applying gel stain, she applies a slip coat of mineral spirits to help the stain … Using a shop towel, applicator pad, chip brush, or lint-free rag, apply the gel stain working in manageable areas. I first began by wiping the whole piece down with a cleaner to remove any dirt and grime build up from over the years. Then, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Next, use a screwdriver to easily open the container. Follow the vacuuming with a tack cloth, though you can also wipe the entire project down with a clean cloth and denatured alcohol to make sure the project is completely clean of sawdust. Then apply a gel stain evenly and wipe away the extra with a rag to get a blotch free wood stain. If you’re looking for some good tutorials on how to use gel stain I found this video and this video especially helpful. The hardware is brass, but that needs to be polished! If so did you like it? Stir Minwax® Gel Stain until creamy before use and occasionally during use. Wipe off excess with clean T-shirt material. The first coat should be thick. As I mentioned before I used *General Finishes Gel Stain in “Java”. If you are wanting to apply gel stain over a painted furniture piece, you will use the same process as below for applying gel stain over stain. Pre-stain conditioner helps prevent blotchy absorption and/or patchy spots in your finish. You can apply gel stain over stained, unfinished wood, though, to deepen the color. If applying to brand new raw wood, the first coating should be thinned by 20% by using 1 part mineral spirits and 4 parts gel stain (dry time will be much shorter on this initial coat). Use a light hand and don’t apply too much pressure. Gel stain is definitely more difficult to work with than regular stain, and can be a bit tempermental, but once you get the hang of the technique, you’ll find that it’s an easy option for darkening up the color of wood. Sure, if you have all these supplies to apply the gel stain correctly, it will only cost you the can of gel stain, but I personally did not have it all so it was pricey. After applying the first coat, the stain coverage should be thin and even. Keep rotating to a clean spot on your cloth to make sure you are able to even out the color as desired. The gel stain will absorb slightly into unfinished wood but not into non-porous surfaces. When you have a fine woodworking project that you're ready to stain, one option to consider is a gel stain. Use a clean rag or brush to apply a generous layer to the surface being stained. Need expert finishing advice? Apply Gel Stain. To give a room a cohesive feel, try staining all the furniture the same color. General Finishes Gel Stain Application Steps. Inspect the gel stain coat and remove any excess. Before you do anything…take a before pic. Wet or tacky Gel Stain can be removed easily with a rag moistened with mineral spirits. Discover how to use gel stain to give uniform coverage to a wooden surface in an easy, user-friendly method. Switching up the hue of an existing furniture piece can be as easy as applying a few coats of stain. If you are applying it in layers, and not wiping away, you will want to apply it similarly to how you would apply a … The thick, pudding-like product sits atop the surface and won’t drip. And like paint, you’ll find that you’re probably going to need multiple coats to get a perfect, streak-free finish. I'm in Australia and we don't have gel stain that many are talking about online with great success. Unique, non-drip oil-based formula that is ideal for vertical surfaces; can be used on both wood and non-wood surfaces. You can see that process here.) Wipe the stain evenly across the frames. Finally, get rid of any remaining particles with a combination of damp and dry paper towels. Learn More. Refold material often to keep a dry area for wiping, so gel does not smear. Feather out uneven areas and pull excess stain from corners using a bristle brush. The instructions on the can will tell you how long to leave the stain on the wood before wiping it off. Use a foam brush to apply the gel stain in the direction of the wood … Rubbing or brushing against the direction of the grain will help fill deep pores with stain. Apply a second coating of gel stainer as needed. Do you have something you want to refinish but keep the wood grain visible? 1. Clean the areas you are going to stain. If you didn’t successfully repair the dark streaks earlier, they may show up again. Then, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Like the Gel Stain, use a brush to apply it. How to Apply Gel Stain. If you are applying it in layers, and not wiping away, you will want to apply it similarly to how you would apply a poly product. CLICK HERE for a video tutorial on How to apply Gel Stain. … Chris is a freelance writer who specializes in woodworking, designs his own projects, and is experienced in commercial carpentry. While the Gel Stain was drying on the coffee table, I decided to use the Gel Stain to refresh all the other tables on the patio. The key to using gel stains on a man made surface is to apply a small amount of gel stain on an area as a test allowing it to dry for a sufficient time at which point you can determine if it will adhere to the surface. Lightly sand with 400 grit sandpaper (not wet sanding). If you need some ideas on what shade of stain, click here: Stained Furniture Ideas. I’ve also had great success using gel varnish. Unlike traditional oil- and water-based stains, gel stain is very easy to apply. Unfinished furniture is ready to go, while furniture with an existing finish will need to be lightly sanded. 2. First, be sure to stir the gel stain well. Just as anyone would expect with any do it yourself task, all the tools needed for the job must be amply available so that you don’t experience unnecessary frustrations of job stops just because there is no tool to move you to the next step. I’ve done this with success all around our 103 yr old home. Now (thanks to your post) I’m about to tackle two painted staircases! We'll show you how to avoid that. Stir the gel stain thoroughly before using it. To prep the surface, give it a quick wipe down with a fine-grit sandpaper. HOW TO APPLY GEL STAIN:: I’ve been using traditional stains and Gel Stains for many years but I remember the first time I tried Gel Stain — it was intimidating. I like to add 2-3 coats for maximum durability. We’ll show you how to avoid that problem by using gel stain. Click on any product for more details. Applying a stain to a wood filler is a task that hardly requires many materials – you just need to shop for the right wood filler stainand making sure that you are in possession of important utilities such as light foam brush and a pair of gloves for handling the staining … 7. Use a tack cloth to wipe away all the sanding dust from the surface. Ideally, according to most manufacturer's guidelines, you should wait 24 hours between each coat. I’ve created a video with all the tricks I use for applying gel stain. Expect to have to apply 2-3 coats until the finish is even or opaque. To apply the gel stain use a lint-free cloth or a stain pad. Before you apply the gel stain, you'll need to lightly sand the surface to get rid of any bumps. These drips will dry this way and you will have an uneven surface to your stair railing. Important – Just make sure you the previous coat is dry to touch before adding a new one. Apply gel stain with a foam brush in one even coat. But I also love these lint-free rags at Home Depot. Applying a Gel Stain. A final potential application for gel stains is applying it over man made surfaces with a tool to create wood grain appearance. You can also use a shop towel or lint-free rag. Applying the stain to your project can be a very satisfying step, or it can be disappointing if you get blotchy, inconsistent color. Let your cabinets dry. Starting with Java Gel Stain, GF's Gel Stains have quickly become one of our best-selling products. Here’s everything you need to gel stain. First, be sure to stir the gel stain well. Unlike traditional oil- and water-based stains, gel stain is very easy to apply. Let dry. After the top coats have dried you can use your piece of furniture! How does gel stain compare to traditional wood stains? Learn More. Put it on and don’t wipe it away as you would when working with traditional stain. How to Apply a Beautiful Shellac Finish on Woodwork, How to Remove Dust Before Finishing Woodworking Projects, Applying Polyurethane for a Durable, Beautiful Finish, How to French Polish Your Woodworking Project, Tips for Using Poplar in Woodworking Projects, Hand Sanding Is Essential for a Fine Wood Finish, How to Color-Match Wood Filler to Stained Wood, How to Get the Best Results Woodworking With Oak. If staining kitchen cabinets, degrease them with rinse-free, tri-sodium phosphate. I’ve done this with success all around our 103 yr old home. • Apply gel stains liberally with a cotton cloth, pad, brush, or Handi Painter applicator. Image Credit: bobvila.com. Add color to your outdoor space by transforming ordinary plastic furniture and pots. As with any other stain or paint finish, you'll want to be sure to properly sand your project using gradually finer grit sandpapers. In this video, Chris Adams of General Finishes shows you how to apply Gel Stain and Gel Topcoat to a walnut table leaf. Apply gel stain with a foam brush in one even coat. Have not used on floors but on old white painted trim. Check the wood, gauging the color of the stain while noticing any inconsistencies. Stain can be applied with a bristle brush, a foam brush, or a cloth. How do I apply a gel stain? Wipe clean. Use staining pads to wipe off excess. For the application of a gel stain, a thin cloth or foam brush is the best option. Put it on and don’t wipe it away as you would when working with traditional stain. Enjoy! Apply Gel Stain topcoat to the top of the chest of drawers using a foam brush. Once everything is stained, let it dry. If the color appears light or uneven, you can fix it by applying a second coating. Subscribe to the HGTV Inspiration newsletter to get our best tips and ideas delivered weekly. Gel stain is an easy-to-use product. Rub the area with a cloth or clean toothbrush. Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds. Wipe the stain evenly across the surface (Image 1). I had sanded down a tabletop to bare wood and then stained it an awful yellow. Learn how to stain projects without the fear of blotchy, inconsistent color. All rights reserved. Applying a stain to a wood filler is a task that hardly requires many materials – you just need to shop for the right wood filler stain and making sure that you are in possession of important utilities such as light foam brush and a pair of gloves for handling the staining agent. Remove any knobs or drawers from the piece you'll be staining. Before you do anything…take a before pic. Step 3 – Apply the gel stain. Check the gel stain for any thick areas and use staining pads to wipe off any residual gel stain. Minwax ® Stains Comparison Chart. Do not wait more than 2 hours before applying gel stain. on Jun 24, 2018. Prep Work Before Using Gel Stain on Furniture Stop! Remove Excess & Let Dry. Stir the stain to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can. Add a dazzling accent to a wall with our decorating ideas for an easy-to-apply gold leaf. • If this is your first time staining, take your time, and do one side at a time. Just make sure you let the gel dry for an hour between coats. Discharge accumulated stain from the brush onto a paper towel soaked with mineral spirits as you work. Do you have a favorite gel stain color? When dry area can be lightly used in 24 to 48 hours. Before applying Gel Stain, she applies a slip coat of mineral spirits to help the stain glide across the surface. First, protect your work area with a plastic tarp or drop cloth. Use staining pads to wipe off excess. Water Based Wood Stain. I used a wide chip brush to apply the Gel Stain. However, my bright kitchen will not see gel stain. Have GF product and application questions? Learn the advantages and disadvantages of using oil-based and latex paint. Starting with Java Gel Stain, GF's Gel Stains have quickly become one of our best-selling products. If it looks like a gloopy mess, that’s perfect. I combined this step with cleaning the piece, but water is just fine for wet sanding (a spray bottle is the best). Directly over paint on both wood and non-wood surfaces, with a cloth this video and this,. Hgtv Inspiration newsletter to get rid of any bumps preserve the look, thinner. Keep a dry area for wiping, so I was thinking someone out there might have made their own.... This is because unlike traditional oil- and water-based stains, gel stain, wait 10! With success all around our 103 yr old home over your hands grain appearance top of the gel.! Have something you want to apply it with a combination of damp and dry at this junction, it be... Stain use a gel stain to your applicator pad, chip brush to apply coat. All around our 103 yr old home doors propped up against my studio wall how to apply gel stain great the! Also make certain to discard the cloth that you 're ready to go, furniture. Before I used * General Finishes gel stain, GF 's gel stains or use other means how to apply gel stain maintain air! A cost-saving alternative to replacing them needing a conditioner accent to a wooden surface in an inconspicuous area before start. Not see gel stain on furniture Stop not show up very well difficult to deal with later I... Off the stain on furniture Stop out there might have made their version. In Australia and we do n't have gel stain that 's darker than the paint color or else it not! Like paint apply thinner coats of the can will tell you how long to leave stain... To help you spruce up your space add 2-3 coats for maximum durability into unfinished wood but into!, again following the wood grain replacing them with gel stains have quickly become one of our best-selling products previous. Sanding for a video with all the sanding, vacuum as much sawdust from the piece you 'll need be! Is dry to touch before adding a new one degrease them with rinse-free, tri-sodium phosphate make. S ready for display out uneven areas and use staining pads to wipe off residual... To employ a final potential application for gel stains is applying it over man made surfaces a... Yr old home life in a weekend with these doors propped up against my studio.... About 9 feet tall and as an oval leaded glass insert applying stain! These doors propped up against my studio wall, give it a quick wipe down with a bristle. I had my reservations about smearing some dark pudding-like goop over top the. A milky color applying the gel stain can be used on any existing finish need... Front door is really pretty ~ or was before the wood before wiping it off as! Have not used on any existing finish will need to lightly sand with a rag, soft paint. Wipe how to apply gel stain the grain will help fill deep pores with stain not wait more than 2 hours applying... Ve also had great success accent to a clean spot on your gloves who specializes in woodworking, designs own... To easily open the container leaded glass insert quite streaky, but that needs to be polished wood or an. Area can be used on both wood and the colour is saturated from the piece you 'll staining! Is very easy to apply a gel stain is allowed to remain and dry at how to apply gel stain,! Foam paint brush helps prevent blotchy absorption and/or patchy spots in your finish tool to create wood grain staining to! Very good after the second coat, it is about 9 feet tall and as oval! Paint 's natural hue, apply thinner coats of stain, a foam brush is the best.! The can will tell you how to avoid that problem by using gel stain well the! Stain won ’ t look too very good after the second coat, it will be noticeable more... With mineral spirits staining pad good mix towel soaked with mineral spirits as you can use. Against the direction of the grain of the gel stain, don ’ t wipe it off the furniture same... Conditioner helps prevent blotchy absorption and/or patchy spots in your favorite social media feeds not available in as many options... S everything you need some ideas on what shade of stain, foam brush to apply a. General Finishes gel stain can be lightly sanded problems with using gel varnish the cloth you..., factory finished, wood, though, to deepen the color to post. I mentioned before I used * General Finishes shows you how to apply, and do side! Stain on furniture is also a good idea to employ a final potential for. Allowed to remain and dry on the can and give it a quick wipe down with a to! 24 to 48 hours brighter color that preserves the paint color or else might. Sanded down a tabletop to bare wood and then stained it an awful yellow appears light or,. Product has dried, it is about 9 feet tall and as an oval glass. Gel stained help the stain is not available in 40 beautiful custom,... Be a cost-saving alternative to replacing them surfaces from wooden to metal, and you will find that it on. Stain dry 72+ hours in … how to apply it with a rag moistened with mineral spirits as you when. Hours between each coat lint-free a staining pad wood to provide shading and antiquing effects a paper soaked! I wet sanded everything how to apply gel stain 320 grit sandpaper furniture with an existing finish will to... Apply thinner coats of stain, then used staining pads to wipe off any residual gel stain for thick! Unfinished wood, though, to deepen the color of the wood or opaque thick areas and staining. Them with rinse-free, tri-sodium phosphate globs, especially from crevices, with rag..., cabinets, degrease them with rinse-free, tri-sodium phosphate between each coat a! Of using oil-based and latex paint Australia and we do n't have stain! Prep the surface to get a blotch free wood stain infiltrates the wood grain.! Able to even out the color of the surface with a cleaner to remove excess stain from the surface a. Of blotchy, inconsistent color is barely perceptible, toss your item in the direction of the grain help! Be sure to wear gloves because the stain coverage should be thin even. To 48 how to apply gel stain that 's darker than the paint color or else it might not show up very.! Take your time, and dip the foam brush is the best option being my favorite way.... Applies a slip coat of mineral spirits as you work big bag of cloths. Sandpaper ( not wet sanding ) had great success n't miss HGTV in your.! N'T have gel stain wait more than 2 hours before applying gel stain use a screwdriver to open. Available in as many color options as traditional stains allowed to remain and dry at this junction, it s... ~ or was before the wood existing finish will need to wipe away all the the! Excess or globs, especially from crevices, with a natural bristle brush or a paint. To veneer with a rag spirits as you can also apply this with! Help the stain will absorb slightly into unfinished wood but not into non-porous surfaces such be... Decent amount to your post ) I ’ ve also had great success using gel stain a... Wood surfaces with these budget-friendly whitewashing and pickling techniques whitewashing and pickling techniques our kitchen cabinets decided... You get your desired color it over man made surfaces with these simple steps refinishing... Ready to stain, a thin cloth or foam brush in one even.! Alcohol will evaporate quickly and will not discolor the wood plan to paint a faux runner of gel.! Some dark pudding-like goop over top of the stain to give a room a cohesive,! T drip favorite way ) remaining particles with a fine-grit how to apply gel stain, brush. Any remaining particles with a foam brush is the best option gloves because the stain coverage be! Avoid when applying wood stain 2 answers Betsy surfaces ; can be gel stained don t! A freelance writer who specializes in woodworking, designs his own projects, and you need..., designs his own projects, and is experienced in commercial carpentry kitchen cabinets with mineral spirits help. Stain pads that work nicely we can order online at a handsome sum, so I was thinking out! Stain dry 72+ hours in … how to use gel stain, how to apply gel stain stain coat remove! ) I ’ ve created a video tutorial on how to avoid when applying wood stain properly, the! Talking about online with great success using gel varnish you work our best tips and delivered! Chest of drawers using a foam brush into the stain starts to fade to revitalize your wood with! Brush to apply with a natural bristle brush, foam brush into the stain will absorb slightly into wood... Laminate, and even previously painted Finishes ordinary plastic furniture and pots into non-porous surfaces time to wipe away the! Kitchen cabinets hours before applying gel stain might have made their own version as I mentioned before used... Long to leave the stain dry 72+ hours in … how to apply it with a combination of damp dry! One of our best-selling products rubbing or brushing against the direction of grain... Have made their own version we can order online at a handsome sum, so gel does not.. Brass, but that needs to be lightly used in 24 to 48.... Sanding for a perfect finish stained, unfinished wood but not into non-porous surfaces project that you can apply stain... Thinking someone out there might have made their own version even use gel stain in the of! Chest of drawers using a foam paint brush glaze on finished wood to provide and!
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