General Finishes Guide to Applying Gel Stain Over an Existing Finish

Gel stain is a fantastic product for revitalizing furniture, adding depth to woodworking projects and even updating existing finishes. General Finishes Gel Stains are heavily pigmented, thick stains that contain urethane, which allows them to sit on top of the wood rather than penetrating it like traditional liquid stains. As a result, they are ideal for use on surfaces that are already sealed, painted or stained, as well as on wood with a closed grain that doesn't readily absorb stain. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to use gel stain, from preparation to finishing, including specific techniques for applying gel stain over existing finishes.

What is Gel Stain and Why Use It?

Gel stain’s unique, thick consistency allows for easy application and beautiful results on various surfaces, including finished wood. It's also a great choice for vertical surfaces where dripping can be a problem with thinner stains. Gel stain's versatility makes it a go-to product for a wide range of woodworking projects.

Preparing Your Surface for Gel Stain

Proper preparation is key to achieving a flawless finish with gel stain. Keep in mind, that once you understand how to apply gel stain to finished wood, the steps are similar when working with unfinished wood.

Cleaning and Prepping Existing Finishes

If you're applying gel stain over an existing finish, thorough cleaning is crucial. This removes any contaminants like wax, oil or grease that could interfere with the gel stain's adhesion.

1. Clean with a Denatured Alcohol Solution: Mix equal parts of denatured alcohol and water. Using a non-woven sanding pad, scrub the surface with this solution. This not only cleans but also slightly etches the existing finish, promoting better adhesion.

2. Dry Thoroughly: Wipe off any excess liquid with a paper towel and allow the surface to dry for at least two hours.

3. Lightly Sand: Using 400-grit sandpaper or a soft-back sanding sponge, lightly buff the surface. This "de-glosses" the existing finish, further improving adhesion. This is a light sanding, not intended to remove the existing finish.

4. Remove Dust: Wipe the surface with a tack cloth or a slightly damp rag (water only) to remove any sanding dust. Allow to dry completely.

Note: Mineral spirits and steel wool can also be used for cleaning, only if your topcoat is General Finishes Oil-Based Gel Stains or General Finishes Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Topcoats. If you are using a water-based topcoat to finish later, use the denatured alcohol solution for cleaning.

Preparing Raw Wood for Gel Stain

While the cleaning process is different for raw wood, surface preparation is still essential.

1. Sand Smooth: Begin by sanding the wood smooth, starting with coarse grit sandpaper and progressing through finer grits. This creates a smooth, even surface for the gel stain.

2. Remove Dust: Thoroughly remove all sanding dust with a tack cloth or damp rag.

Protecting Your Workspace

Gel stain can be messy, so it's important to protect your workspace:

• Cover Surfaces: Use tarps, plastic sheeting or cardboard to cover floors, furniture and other surfaces you don't want to stain.

• Taping: Use painter's tape to protect areas you don't want to stain, such as glass or hardware.

• Remove Hardware: If possible, remove hardware like knobs and handles. If not, tape them off carefully.

How to Apply Gel Stain: Four Different Methods

Gel stain's versatility allows for different application methods, each offering unique results.

1. The "Apply On, Wipe Off" Method

This is the most common and beginner-friendly method for applying gel stain. It's perfect for achieving a rich, even color.

1. Apply Liberally: Using a cotton cloth, pad, brush or painter applicator, apply the gel stain liberally to the surface.

2. Wipe Off Excess: Immediately wipe off the excess gel stain with a clean, lint-free cloth (T-shirt material works great). Refold the cloth frequently to prevent smearing.

3. Work in Sections: If you're working on a large piece, work in smaller sections to maintain control and prevent the gel stain from drying before you can wipe it off.

4. Drying Time: Allow the first coat to dry completely for 24-48 hours. Drying time can vary depending on temperature and humidity. Cooler, humid conditions will require longer drying times.

5. Apply Additional Coats: Apply additional coats as needed to achieve the desired color depth. You can brush or wipe on subsequent coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

2. Wiping Gel Stain On

This method is ideal for touch-ups or adding a subtle hint of color to raw wood.

1. Apply with a Cloth: Apply the gel stain to a lint-free cloth.

2. Circular Motion: Using a circular motion, rub the gel stain into the wood grain.

3. Wipe with the Grain: Follow up by wiping with the grain to even out the color.

4. Drying Time: Let dry for 24-48 hours between coats.

3. Brushing Gel Stain On

Brushing gel stain is a good option if you want a more opaque, almost painted look.

1. Dry Brushing: For a lighter look, dry brush the gel stain onto the surface, using minimal product on your brush.

2. Heavy Application: For a darker, more opaque look, apply the gel stain liberally with a brush. Then, remove the excess with a dry brush or cloth, feathering it out in the direction of the grain.

3. Drying Time: Dry brushing requires approximately 24 hours of drying time. Heavier applications may need up to 48 hours.

4. Dry Padding Gel Stain to Blend

Dry padding is a technique used to soften harsh lines and blend the gel stain for a more even finish.

1. Create a Pad: Wrap a small ball of T-shirt material with another piece of T-shirt material to create a smooth pad.

2. Dab and Blend: Gently dab the stained area with the pad, blending and smoothing out any heavy lines or unevenness. You can also use a dry natural bristle brush for this purpose. Allow the stain to set slightly for about 30 minutes before padding.

Adding a Topcoat for Protection

For projects that will see heavy use, such as tabletops, kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities, a topcoat is essential for protecting the gel stain and providing a durable, water-resistant finish.

1. Drying Time: Allow the final coat of gel stain to dry for at least 48 hours before applying a topcoat.

2. Choose Your Topcoat: General Finishes offers several excellent topcoat options, including Enduro-Var Water-Based Topcoat, High-Performance Water-Based Topcoat and Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Topcoat. Select the topcoat that best suits your project and desired finish.

3. Apply Topcoat: Apply 3-4 coats of your chosen topcoat.

Tips and Tricks for Using Gel Stain

• Test on a Scrap Piece: Always test your chosen gel stain and application method on a scrap piece of wood before working on your project.

• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: Gel stain contains solvents, so it's important to work in a well-ventilated area.

• Wear Gloves: Protect your hands by wearing gloves.

• Clean Up Spills Immediately: Clean up any gel stain spills with mineral spirits while the stain is still wet.

• Don't Rush the Drying Time: Allow ample drying time between coats of gel stain and before applying a topcoat. Rushing the drying process can lead to problems like tackiness or uneven finish.

Gel Stain on Other Surfaces

Gel stain can be used on surfaces other than wood, such as laminate or plastic. However, adhesion can be an issue. Always test the gel stain on an inconspicuous area first. If it scratches off easily after 48 hours, it's not adhering well and shouldn't be used. For these surfaces, ensure exceptionally long drying times (minimum 48 hours per coat).

Finish Your Next Project with Gel Stain

Gel stain is a versatile and forgiving product that can transform your woodworking projects. By following these tips and techniques, you can achieve beautiful, professional-looking finishes. Remember to practice, experiment and find the method that works best for you. With a little patience and attention to detail, you'll be amazed at the results you can achieve with gel stain.

Content for this article is updated from the original post by General Finishes