Painting with gel stain is a popular method for transforming furniture, cabinets, and other wood surfaces, especially when dealing with surfaces that are difficult to stain traditionally, like previously finished wood or materials that don't absorb stain evenly.
Gel stain is a thicker, non-drip stain that sits on top of the surface more than traditional liquid stains, offering more control and opacity.
Steps for Applying Gel Stain
Applying gel stain is similar to painting, but with a crucial wiping step to achieve the desired look.
1. Preparation is Key
Proper preparation ensures the gel stain adheres correctly and you get a smooth, even finish.
- Clean the Surface: Thoroughly clean the piece to remove dirt, grime, and grease. A degreaser or mineral spirits works well.
- Light Sanding (Optional but Recommended): While gel stain can often adhere without heavy sanding, a light scuff sanding (using fine-grit sandpaper like 150-220) helps create a profile for better adhesion, especially on previously finished surfaces. Wipe off all dust afterward.
- Remove Hardware: Take off knobs, handles, hinges, or any other hardware.
- Protect Your Workspace: Lay down drop cloths and use painter's tape to protect areas you don't want stained.
2. Applying the Gel Stain
Gel stain can be applied using various tools, depending on the desired effect and the size of the project.
- Application Tools: Use a brush (natural bristle or foam), a rag, or a foam applicator pad.
- Apply Generously: Dip your applicator into the gel stain and apply a generous, even coat over a section of the surface. Don't overspread; think of it like applying a thick paint layer. Work in manageable sections.
3. Wiping Off the Excess
This is the critical step that differentiates staining from painting and allows you to control the color depth and reveal any underlying wood grain.
- Timing: Wipe off the excess stain almost immediately after application, or within a few minutes, depending on how deep you want the color to be. The longer you wait, the darker the result.
- Wipe Technique: Use clean, lint-free rags to wipe away the excess stain, following the direction of the wood grain. Use fresh areas of the rag frequently.
- Wiping more removes more stain, resulting in a lighter, more translucent look.
- Wiping less leaves more stain behind, resulting in a darker, more opaque look.
- Achieving Uniformity: Work quickly and maintain a wet edge within your section to avoid lap marks.
4. Drying Time
Allow the first coat to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. Drying times can vary based on humidity, temperature, and the thickness of the application, but often range from 6 to 24 hours.
5. Additional Coats (Optional)
If you desire a deeper or more opaque color, apply a second coat by repeating steps 2-4 after the first coat is completely dry. Sanding lightly with fine-grit sandpaper (e.g., 320 grit) between coats can help adhesion and smooth the finish, but it's not always necessary with gel stain. Be sure to wipe off all dust if you sand.
6. Applying a Protective Topcoat
Once the final coat of gel stain is completely dry (usually 24-72 hours), apply a protective topcoat to seal and protect the finish from wear and tear. Polyurethane, polycrylic, or a clear varnish are common choices.
As mentioned in the video reference, you might use a matte finish topcoat. This finish looks white but it dries totally clear and once you've applied it, you're done. Applying a clear topcoat provides durability and a protective layer to your newly stained surface.
Gel Stain vs. Traditional Stain
Here's a quick comparison:
| Feature | Gel Stain | Traditional Liquid Stain |
|---|---|---|
| Consistency | Thick, non-drip, paint-like | Thin, penetrates into wood |
| Application | Sits on surface, less penetration | Absorbs into wood fibers |
| Ideal Surfaces | Previously finished wood, non-porous | Unfinished, porous wood |
| Grain Visibility | Can obscure grain if not wiped well | Enhances grain (usually) |
| Control | More control over color depth/opacity | Less control, color dependent on wood |
By following these steps, you can successfully paint with gel stain to revitalize your furniture and surfaces.
