When you're happy with the sanding, vacuum as much sawdust from the entire project as possible. 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. I’ve created a video with all the tricks I use for applying gel stain. First, be sure to stir the gel stain well. Have not used on floors but on old white painted trim. It is about 9 feet tall and as an oval leaded glass insert. As with any other stain or paint finish, you'll want to be sure to properly sand your project using gradually finer grit sandpapers. To apply the gel stain use a lint-free cloth or a stain pad. I’m working with these doors propped up against my studio wall. Wet or tacky Gel Stain can be removed easily with a rag moistened with mineral spirits. Gel stain is an easy-to-use alternative to traditional stain. We’ll show you how to avoid that problem by using gel stain. 1. Stir the stain to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can. 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. Refold material often to keep a dry area for wiping, so gel does not smear. If desired, thin stain with mineral spirits. Discover how to use gel stain to give uniform coverage to a wooden surface in an easy, user-friendly method. To prep the surface, give it a quick wipe down with a fine-grit sandpaper. Open windows and doors, or use other means to maintain fresh air flow during application and drying. Learn How to Use 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 … Gel Stain. Do you have something you want to refinish but keep the wood grain visible? With many stain options to choose from, we’re covering all the pros and cons of gel stain and how to use it. Learn More. I’ve done this with success all around our 103 yr old home. 2. The gel stain is thick like pudding, not a liquid. Follow these quick painting and staining tips to turn your tired, old fence into backyard statement piece. 3. However, be sure that the coat is not so thick that it drips down the railing. Before you apply the gel stain, you'll need to lightly sand the surface to get rid of any bumps. STEP #2 Apply a decent amount to your applicator pad. Applying the stain to your project can be a very satisfying step, or it can be disappointing if you get blotchy, inconsistent color. Then apply a gel stain evenly and wipe away the extra with a rag to get a blotch free wood stain. Fast-drying, available in 40 beautiful custom colors, soap and water clean-up. I’ve done this with success all around our 103 yr old home. I’ve also had great success using gel varnish. Have you used gel stain before? Unlike traditional oil- and water-based stains, gel stain is very easy to apply. 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. You can even use gel stain as a glaze on finished wood to provide shading and antiquing effects. 1. Be sure to have adequate ventilation when working with gel stains, as they contain materials that give off toxic fumes. Apply Additional Coats. We’ll show you how to avoid that problem by using gel stain. Keep in mind that the stain won’t absorb as much as a traditional stain. 1. Apply Stain. Always make final brush strokes in the direction of the embossed grain. Let the stain dry 72+ hours in … If you’re applying gel stain to raw wood, you absolutely need to use pre-stain wood conditioner! Did you know that you can apply gel stain directly over paint? Minwax ® Stains Comparison Chart. I had sanded down a tabletop to bare wood and then stained it an awful yellow. If applying stain exteriorly, top coating with an exterior clear finish is strongly recommended. Just make sure you let the gel dry for an hour between coats. Additionally, if there are any defects in the stock that haven't been filled before staining, the gel stain will be difficult to wipe out of the defect and will appear a different, likely unwelcome, color than the rest of the project after it dries. Once everything is stained, let it dry. Don rubber or latex gloves (the more fitted, the better control you’ll have), and dip a rag into the stain. When you have a fine woodworking project that you're ready to stain, one option to consider is a gel stain. Be patient. We'll show you how to avoid that. Before you start with applying the gel stain, don’t forget to put on your gloves. Stain Application: Using a high quality natural bristle brush, spread a thin, even coat over the entire surface, starting with the raised panel sections. Here’s everything you need to gel stain. Next, use a screwdriver to easily open the container. What's old is chic again. 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After you have done a thorough cleaning on your cabinets, make sure that you … 2. For a brighter color that preserves the paint's natural hue, apply thinner coats of the gel stain. Wipe the stain evenly across the surface. As such, be careful not to over-apply the stain to such intersections. 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. Discharge accumulated stain from the brush onto a paper towel soaked with mineral spirits as you work. Unique, non-drip oil-based formula that is ideal for vertical surfaces; can be used on both wood and non-wood surfaces. Well that’s it for the best way to apply stain and what to avoid when applying wood stain! The thick, pudding-like product sits atop the surface and won’t drip. If you’re looking for some good tutorials on how to use gel stain I found this video and this video especially helpful. … And like paint, you’ll find that you’re probably going to need multiple coats to get a perfect, streak-free finish. The instructions on the can will tell you how long to leave the stain on the wood before wiping it off. Read on for the video transcript and a list of useful links. Open the can and give the stain a good mix. Image Credit: bobvila.com. 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. Let your cabinets dry. Instead, I plan to paint them white, which is a project for this spring. Expect to have to apply 2-3 coats until the finish is even or opaque. Then, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Eeeek! Get DIY project ideas and easy-to-follow crafts to help you spruce up your space. Although the color was beautiful, because this is patio furniture, I gave everything a second coat. The first coat should be thick. Apply the gel stain, wait about 10 minutes and wipe to remove the extra stain. Give the surface a very light scuff with the sanding block. You might encounter two problems with using gel stains. Need expert finishing advice? Unfinished furniture is ready to go, while furniture with an existing finish will need to be lightly sanded. You can also buy a pack of gel stain pads that work nicely. It needs 24-48 hours. Takes approx. 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. Kitchen cupboards, cabinets, previously stained furniture, factory finished, wood, veneer or laminate, and even previously painted finishes. Remove any excess or globs, especially from crevices, with a rag. Check the wood, gauging the color of the stain while noticing any inconsistencies. Once the product has dried, it’s ready for display. You will notice that it goes on with a milky color. Easily brighten and add rustic charm to furniture and a variety of wood surfaces with these budget-friendly whitewashing and pickling techniques. Use a foam brush to apply the gel stain in the direction of the wood … Unlike traditional oil- and water-based stains, gel stain is very easy to apply. © 2020 Discovery or its subsidiaries and affiliates. Apply gel stain with a foam brush in one even coat. I love two tone MCM furniture. 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. After applying the first coat, the stain coverage should be thin and even. As I mentioned before I used *General Finishes Gel Stain in “Java”. In this video, Chris Adams of General Finishes shows you how to apply Gel Stain and Gel Topcoat to a walnut table leaf. Step 3 – Apply Gel Stain. 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. Prep Work Before Using Gel Stain on Furniture Stop! If so leave a comment below! You can see that process here.) Use a tack cloth to wipe away all the sanding dust from the surface. Let the surface rest and dry out thoroughly within the following 30 minutes. Open your can of gel stain. 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!. Includes a video tutoral on how to use gel stain on a dresser that is already stained and finished. HOW TO APPLY THE GEL STAIN Once you’ve decided on a color, open the can and give it a good stir. The gel stain will absorb slightly into unfinished wood but not into non-porous surfaces. Join the party! A final potential application for gel stains is applying it over man made surfaces with a tool to create wood grain appearance. Apply gel stain with a foam brush in one even coat. Stain can be applied with a bristle brush, a foam brush, or a cloth. Use staining pads to wipe off excess. Here's how. The first coat should be thick. Rubbing or brushing against the direction of the grain will help fill deep pores with stain. Starting with Java Gel Stain, GF's Gel Stains have quickly become one of our best-selling products. How To Apply Gel Stain To Finished Wood. 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. Wipe the stain evenly across the surface (Image 1). You will need to wipe up the excess stainer and let the wood dry again afterwards. Start on the back first so … Just see how it transformed these picture frames for a gallery wall. When dry area can be lightly used in 24 to 48 hours. In dry environments, let the first coat cure for 24 hours. Prep Work Before Using Gel Stain on Furniture Stop! Chris is a freelance writer who specializes in woodworking, designs his own projects, and is experienced in commercial carpentry. I used a foam brush to apply a thick layer of the stain, then used staining pads to wipe it off. Lightly sand with 400 grit sandpaper (not wet sanding). I combined this step with cleaning the piece, but water is just fine for wet sanding (a spray bottle is the best). Apply Polyurethane. Learn the advantages and disadvantages of using oil-based and latex paint. Do you have something you want to refinish but preserve the look of the wood grain? This may feel a little bit like spreading thick ketchup and will appear very uneven, which is fine as long as there is complete coverage. You will find that it goes on smoothly and evenly. Wipe the stain evenly across the frames. Stir the gel stain thoroughly before using it. Add color to your outdoor space by transforming ordinary plastic furniture and pots. Learn More. Applying a Gel Stain. For the application of a gel stain, a thin cloth or foam brush is the best option. Work in a well-ventilated area. Step 2 - Apply the stain Method 1 - Wipe Stain Once the surface is completely dry you can begin applying a coat of gel stain. The denatured alcohol will evaporate quickly and will not discolor the wood. Even though I hated the look, I had my reservations about smearing some dark pudding-like goop over top of it. Gel stain is a go-to choice for DIYers because it delivers very uniform cover. To give a room a cohesive feel, try staining all the furniture the same color. Have GF product and application questions? Applying the stain to your project can be a very satisfying step, or it can be disappointing if you get blotchy, inconsistent color. Let dry. Before applying gel stain, she applies a slip coat of mineral spirits to help the stain … Discover how to use gel stain to give uniform coverage to a wooden surface in an easy, user-friendly method. Add a dazzling accent to a wall with our decorating ideas for an easy-to-apply gold leaf. 8. 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. Enjoy! Then, you can apply several coats of gel stain until you get your desired color. General Finishes Gel Stain Application Steps. 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. Tips and tricks for applying gel stain to a wood finish to darken the color, without stripping or sanding away the old finish. How does gel stain compare to traditional wood stains? Even though gel stain is thick, be sure to stir it. Put it on and don’t wipe it away as you would when working with traditional stain. 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. 6. If staining kitchen cabinets, degrease them with rinse-free, tri-sodium phosphate. This step is very important to ensure an even finished outcome. Don rubber or latex gloves (the more fitted, the better control you’ll have), and dip a rag into the stain. Before Refreshing the Front Door with Gel Stain. You can also use a shop towel or lint-free rag. 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. 1. It needs 24-48 hours. CLICK HERE for a video tutorial on How to apply Gel Stain. Is your fence in need of a makeover? Until I came across your site I had also planned to paint a faux runner! Before you do anything…take a before pic. 5 days to cure. In this video, Chris Adams of General Finishes shows you how to apply General Finishes Oil Based Gel Stain and General Finishes Oil Based Gel Topcoat to a walnut table leaf. If you use a gel stain, you can apply it without needing a conditioner. Whereas water-based stains are thin and need to penetrate into the wood to be effective, gel stains are thick and truly gel-like stain colors, so they lay over top of an existing finish nicely! 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. If it looks like a gloopy mess, that’s perfect. For instance, when applying to a table, you may have difficulty getting the stain out of the junction where the legs or rails meet the tabletop. First, protect your work area with a plastic tarp or drop cloth. Clean the areas you are going to stain. • If this is your first time staining, take your time, and do one side at a time. Remove Excess & Let Dry. I first began by wiping the whole piece down with a cleaner to remove any dirt and grime build up from over the years. Our front door is really pretty ~ or was before the wood stain faded. Use a foam brush to apply the gel stain in the direction of the wood grain. Using a shop towel, applicator pad, chip brush, or lint-free rag, apply the gel stain working in manageable areas. If you didn’t successfully repair the dark streaks earlier, they may show up again. on Jun 24, 2018. Once the stain is barely perceptible, toss your item in the wash as soon as you can. 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! Once everything is stained, let it dry. Follow these step-by-instructions for achieving a distressed look on furniture. Rub the area with a cloth or clean toothbrush. You can also apply this stain with a foam paint brush! Apply Gel Stain. It is NOT a pre-stain conditioner. Do you have a favorite gel stain color? Privacy Policy. Once dry, apply the topcoat with a synthetic brush. First, be sure to stir the gel stain well. We'll show you how by using gel stain. After the top coats have dried you can use your piece of furniture! Before applying Gel Stain, she applies a slip coat of mineral spirits to help the stain glide across the surface. How do I apply a gel stain? 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. Give an old kitchen table new life in a weekend with these simple steps for refinishing wood furniture. Prep Surface. Start by adding 5% by volume and increase up to 15% as needed. • 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. See the video for more details! Then, apply the stain to any drawers or knobs using the same method (Image 2). Soaked with mineral spirits how to use gel stain well it without needing a.. 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Walnut table leaf and even painted surfaces can be how to apply gel stain easily with a rag to excess... Globs, especially from crevices, with a cleaner to remove excess stain wood in! Stain directly over paint keep a dry area for wiping, so gel does smear... Especially from crevices, with a rag Finishes shows you how long to the. Any existing finish awful yellow the thick product sits atop the surface, give it a mix. A synthetic brush user-friendly method a combination of damp and dry paper.! Is a freelance writer who specializes in woodworking, designs his own projects, and will.