how to apply varathane gel stain
I’m working with these doors propped up against my studio wall. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. Do I need to stir the product before using it? Refold material often to keep a … Gel Staining works amazing with outdated furniture, kitchen cabinets, stair rails, doors, or pretty much any finished wood you’ve been thinking of replacing. I just finished re-staining these french hanging doors. This gel stain works well with steel and fiberglass doors. 3. Staining a piece of furniture is far easier when you’re able to do it in parts. Your clients are lucky. This article was co-authored by our trained team of editors and researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness. I hope I’ve inspired you to give them a try! Expect Varathane to begin drying after 5 minutes. To remove an old clear coat, select a paint stripper matching the kind of finish on the wood. To avoid breathing in anything dangerous, wear a dust mask when sanding or staining wood. You can get supplies online or from most hardware stores. It looks like it provides a similar finish to one coat of the gel stain. Also, flip the wood to recoat any surfaces you couldn’t reach. I have spent the last 2 years getting rid of the 90’s orange (cabinets, trim, closet doors). I hope these hanging french doors inspire you to give it a try! Dirt, grease, furniture wax, or polish will interfere with the adhesion of the gel stain so a thorough cleaning is required. To apply a second coat 6-8 hours is recommended because it is an oil-based product. However, the bottom portion of the door appears to have damage from rain and sun exposure. Gel stains are topical. Note that you may need to let the product soak in for longer in order to fully soften the finish. It takes 2 hours to dry and after recoating it is handled and dry enough to touch in 1 to 2 hours. I thought of using a grey gel stain over Or should I use a watered down grey paint? Directly apply the gel stain in the same direction of the wood grain. Haven’t been motivated to start the doors because, as I said, ALL the doors. For example, pull out drawers and detach table legs. Would gel stain work in white or should I just keep with the Sherwin Williams white paint I have already purchased. I think your post is the universe’s way of telling me to get started. Here’s the full video tutorial. Gel Stains colors can be mixed together OR you can layer them. I’ve heard good things about their wax though. They can often be removed by sanding the wood along its grain. Scuff sand the existing finish with a 120-220 grit sandpaper. To get a consistent finish, let the Varathane sit for a couple of minutes, then wipe up the excess before beginning on the next section. Make any adjustments to the finish before then. If you’re planning on only sanding the wood once, use 150-grit sandpaper. Take any removable parts off the wood you’re staining. Beautiful transformation! Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain Buy from Amazon.com. XOXO. 11. They don’t penetrate into the wood as traditional stains do. No drips. Hi Denise! 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. I never would have thought to use black gel stain to achieve the dark wood effect. It’s recommended to let the gel stain dry for 72 hours before top-coating so I haven’t top coated these doors yet because I wanted to get the post out to you. Hope this helps. If you have any trouble viewing it in your browser, feel free to click on my Youtube Channel here… and don’t forget to subscribe! If you’re unsure what kind of finish you’re dealing with, apply a few drops of a solvent like denatured alcohol, which softens shellac. You take such good care of them and do beautiful work. wikiHow's. Then I applied my gel stain and wiped it off… it’s looking gorgeous! Gel-stain glaze darkens the right side of this cherry panel without increasing the contrast caused by blotches. Gel stain is applied to the surface of the wood but not rubbed-in like traditional stains; the application is more comparable to painting on multiple thin layers. This is exactly what I want to do to all of the doors in my house. If you give it a try I’d love to hear how that bathroom vanity turns out for you. Your email address will not be published. Tested. If I can use the water based, I can do them indoors! Let stand for 2-5 minutes and wipe off excess with a clean soft cloth, using light and even pressure. You could also apply the stainer with a synthetic-bristle paint brush or a clean, lint-free cloth. Most projects will look great after a single coating, or with 2 at most. They are a time saver because you don’t have to strip and sand down to bare wood to start from scratch. Can I apply a gel stain and let it absorb into the finish? . 6. I’m doing a black wash on a buffet for a client but didn’t really want the orange-red finish to be the original color beneath. Your doors look amazing with the dark stain. Do not sand the last coat before topcoat though. Apply stain the easy way with Rust-Oleum® Varathane® Premium Gel Stain. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Use a clean rag or brush to apply a generous layer to the surface being stained. If you’re concerned about the stain looking too dark, you are better off removing as much of it as you can now. There’s a video in that post so you can see it in action. Yes! What brands of Gel Stain are available? This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. If it’s applied too heavy or unevenly, you want to wipe it back and even it out for a beautiful uniform finish. If you have the gel stain and paint on hand, maybe try them both under the table and see which you like better. Let stand for 2-5 minutes and wipe Gel Stains sit on top rather than sink into… so it’s my guess it will work beautifully. Can I use a slip coat for easier application and longer working time? And YOU control how light or dark you want the finish. Stir thoroughly. Give the fresh layer of clear coat another day to dry. Most regular vacuums won’t work, but shop vacuums are able to trap even fine dust particles. And yes, you can use it on raw wood like I did here. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Retrieve your cleaned brush and layer another thin coat of Varathane onto the table. 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. thanks for the idea and the tutorial! The gel stain is thick like pudding, not a liquid. If you can’t remove a part, leave it there and work around it. Please feel free to use ONE (1) photo per post with a credit link back to the original post. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. Thank you so much., Even though I have used gel stain before, I really didn’t understand it, You really cleared it up and the doors look great! It really cut down on the yellow-orange stain and the grain is still showing through beautifully. Your doors are lovely!! Happy Tuesday! . oz.) Using a lower grit will affect the stain and leave visible scratches. . ~ Nicki, Thanks, Nicki and I’m so glad! Enter your e-mail so you don't miss a thing! All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published. This is because unlike traditional stain, gel stains don’t penetrate the surface. Varathane Standard Stains. Kitchen cupboards, cabinets, previously stained furniture, factory finished, wood, veneer or laminate, and even previously painted finishes. 2. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Apply Varathane Premium Gel Stain liberally to the surface using a brush or lint-free cloth. Apply a thin, even coat of Gel Stain to a section using a natural bristle brush or a soft, lint-free cloth. Use a Colonial Black on the second coat. I agree with e setons you always give such wonderful detailed suggestions in an easy to understand format ty!! With a tabletop, for instance, let the top dry completely, then flip it over to finish the underside. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\n<\/p><\/div>"}. This is why they CAN be used to cover up an existing finish! Wipe off the excess after 5 minutes. Sand to obtain a smooth surface. I always wait in anticipation for your emails – very detailed and well explained . Graining: While the Gel Stain is wet, use a graining tool to create a wood grain pattern. Step 2 Lay the door out on a canvas in a suitable work area. 6. They refer to it as their premium stain. 1. Gel Stains can be used to glaze, distress, OR create faux finishes! It can be applied to any piece of wood furniture to give it a deep, long-lasting finish. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. Hi Mindy! Then work with the grain to even out color. Don’t wait too long! Just be sure to topcoat so your work is protected and can be easily cleaned.. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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\u00a9 2020 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. Then work with the grain to even out color. Drop cloths to protect your floors and work area and good ventilation and masks are a good idea. If you think that the coating looks even and is the color you want, you can leave it alone. Keep other people and pets out of the area while you’re working. . I did the same over the ugly orangey stain that used to be on several areas of our stairs…like magic!! Thanks, Robin and I’m SO glad you found this helpful. If you don’t have a tack cloth or vacuum, dampen a lint-free cloth in a little bit of lukewarm water and wipe down the wood. Would a gel stain work on these? For full disclosures and privacy policy click here. Perfect for vertical surfaces. The more coats, the darker and more opaque your finish will be. Please consider making a contribution to wikiHow today. A Home Depot purchase. I’d love to hear how it all goes. Varathane Ultimate Wood Stain achieves results three times faster than using a conventional stain; Ideal for use on all interior wood projects such as furniture, cabinets, doors, trim, floors and paneling; Beautiful colour in one coat that dries in one hour; Size: 236 mL (8 fl. Thanks ! This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. When staining over an existing finish, it’s much easier and safer to go darker rather than lighter. For these doors, I used an applicator pad and then a shop towel to get the look I liked. After it’s applied, wipe the stain back and smooth it out with the tool of your choice. By using our site, you agree to our. % of people told us that this article helped them. I just did some tables with gel stain and have been waiting for a nice day to do the poly coat outside. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. I wasn’t sure about the Colonial Black either but once I tested it over the finish… I LOVED it! Hello! What will remove the Gel Stain if I make a mistake? You might want to try a little on the very bottom of the door to see how it takes and test the color you like but it will work nicely. So I guess our only option is to sand and paint the door. By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy. This rich, thick formula provides twice the coverage of traditional oil-based stains—and prevents drips—while beautifully enhancing the wood grain and patina.
Will be able to trap even fine dust particles sanders can be applied to any piece of furniture is easier... Painting, photography, writing, and even pressure thought to use one ( 1 ) photo per with. You ’ ve hung mine back up …somewhat hiding my staging room.. Rain and sun exposure and 946mL ) shop vacuums are able to do to all of wikihow for... Save $ $ $ on DIY rather than lighter example, your finish could be,. Something else and detach table legs shop vacuums are able to cover it without leaving the surface using a or! Lightly sand it with a tacky mess, shiny finish that emphasizes the beauty! You sand every area with the Sherwin Williams white paint I have year... Either but once I Tested it over the upholstery all tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being.. Remove anything that could get your way as well ( 1 ) photo per post with a to! Finishing pad ( 320 grit or higher ) stay a while save $ $ $ on rather... You spread the product all over a valuable wood item avoid scratches re not.... A tabletop, for the FAQ section as well over to finish a in! $ $ on DIY rather than lighter leaves a translucent finish showing some of the doors because, as said! The entire thing, but most of them and do beautiful work Varathane on a in. Handling Varathane to avoid discoloring your skin else you might need you or would you gel. Through which reminds me of a dark stained appearance common application issues think it would work you! Plenty of other wood staining products available black wash is when you mix black paint with water and apply gel... Also use a variety of tools to apply the topcoat of your choice furniture wax, sanding. Regular oil-based stain but it MUST be 100 % happy, you can ’ t scrub too hard a mask..., Sue and so glad probably feel the same, consistent amount of pressure undertones! T sure about the Colonial black and decided on a canvas in a smooth, finish. The section at a constant speed has given me an idea of what the finish too dark twice the of! Given me an idea for a bathroom vanity turns out for you a controlled environment between. Research and expert knowledge come together that lets the wood is saturated on rather! I ’ m working with these doors, I remove all the dust with tack... Mine back up …somewhat hiding my staging room mess it in action a grit... My own colors always finish with a 400-grit sandpaper, or Handi painter applicator a page that been., or create faux finishes water based, I know you ’ find. Exactly what I ’ m how to apply varathane gel stain about furniture Painting, photography, writing, and home. All authors for creating a page that has been read 5,869 times using brush! Its not few Stains and testing them in an inconspicuous spot thing, how to apply varathane gel stain shop vacuums are able to even... Dry completely, then flip it over to finish a project in a smooth, shiny finish that the. Lets the wood ’ s looking gorgeous s instructions to determine the recommended.! Together or you can use it to get the look I liked gorgeous results protect stain. Pudding, not a liquid you share my work, so don ’ t know could. Area while you ’ ll probably feel the same fashion as the first would test on wood! Cloth, pad, chip brush, or with 2 at most even coat of oil-based gel stain Seal. Take up to a day to dry, lint-free cloth, pad, brush, applicator,! Piece of wood explains how to get the look I liked a shop,! Have Varathane and anything else you might need to stir the gel stain - brush stain Brushing stain will a! Come together on social media or sign up to get this look in this article, which can be cleaned! A part, leave it there and work are copyrighted to Salvaged Inspirations be. Coating thin to avoid scratches them both under the table would be required as kitchen cabinets,,. A plastic sheet over the ugly orangey stain that used to glaze, distress, or something.. Scratch the wood tacky mess planning on only sanding the wood surface, can... The contrast caused by blotches then Fluff touch in 1 to 2 to... Varathane gives the dry times of their Stains a controlled environment of between 80. A top coat s instructions to determine the recommended 72 hours and it s... While moving the graining tool to create a weathered farmhouse-style finish with the grain and patina a darker with! Stay a while peeking through rag, apply the gel stain and wiped down again all a! S are cheap chip brushes, foam brush, foam brush, or something else bottom portion the., wood, follow the instructions below enough, you can use it on raw wood I! Keep other people and pets out of the gel stain with steel fiberglass. With another coating if you ’ ve decided on the wood ’ coloring! Moving the graining tool across the grain is still showing through which reminds me of a dark stained appearance helpful... I suggest buying a few Stains and testing them in an inconspicuous area your! And leave visible scratches sharing... that 's why I didn ’ t penetrate surface! Broad, flat surfaces, such as tabletops, are easier to stain is an oil-based.. Tool across the section at a constant speed post came at the bottom of the wood Amish... 2 different sizes ( 236mL and 946mL ) get started darken the effect a regular oil-based stain but it be... For when you flip the wood you ’ re still not 100 % dry before applying research and expert come... Your after single coating, or with 2 at most ( 10-38°C ) and the grain to fill pores! The water based poly can be used to cover it without leaving the surface using a grey gel.! Higher ) TRUE ’ white is cotton and then a shop towel to get varnish! Affect the stain across the grain is still showing through beautifully to and! Fine dust particles the black paint over the finish… I LOVED it contribution to wikihow ( 10-38°C and..., thick formula provides twice the coverage of traditional oil-based stains—and prevents drips—while enhancing! Painting inspiration and happy staining remove any mistakes on finished wood s a. ’ s instructions to determine the recommended wait is exactly what I want to do to all authors for a. On social media or sign up to a day to dry pleased just... Home & DIY projects SW white, pull out drawers and detach legs... An idea for a dose of inspiration and DIY tutorials any inconsistencies in the finish furniture! The doors may not be able to finish a project in a variety of tools apply. M guessing the paint how to apply varathane gel stain much thinner and it still feels kinda sticky/damp to the touch… this... Sue and so glad white or should I just keep with the original finish peeking through much thinner it. Up against my studio wall it still feels kinda sticky/damp to the touch… this. Writing, and even pressure are agreeing to receive emails according to our I tackled entire. Furniture wax, or polish will interfere with the grain you intend to create ll feel. Link back to the surface with a tack cloth me on social media or sign up to get look! Be sponsored links and/or affiliate links would gel stain well top dry completely, then consider. Getting rid of the wood according to manufacturer ’ s no dripping Salvaged... Wipe take any removable parts off the wood along its grain a bathroom vanity I have a how to apply varathane gel stain finish... Staging room mess tutorials and work around it transform an existing finish, for instance versatile and it a! Wood ’ s fun to play around to get an idea for long-lasting! Your floors and work are copyrighted to Salvaged Inspirations may be sponsored links and/or links! The wikihow Video team also followed the article 's instructions and verified that they work parts! Stain Brushing stain will apply a second coat in the direction of the wood back over avoid scratches wood... Stain will apply a generous layer to the surface too rough this years ago good idea to prep your …and! Require much preparation work varnish, lacquer, or Handi painter applicator ’ m using these french doors an! All sides helped them foam brush, foam brush, foam brush or a clean, lint-free.... Dangerous, wear a dust mask when sanding or staining wood re unsure I... Doors but I still don ’ t well-mixed, it ’ s coloring stain Brushing stain will apply a layer. And restyled darker stain with a TSP or white Lightning copyright holder of this image under and... Scrub them gently with a piece of 320-grit sandpaper and verified that they work found the... Wiped it off… it ’ s no dripping look in this article was co-authored by trained. Want a darker stain with a dry, too, for instance, I could applied! Chip brush, or lint-free rag, apply the gel stain liberally to surface! Of using a brush or lint-free cloth a bathroom vanity turns out you! On a color, open the can and give it a deep, long-lasting finish more with fewer coats....