How to Use Gel Stain

Do you have something you want to refinish but preserve the look of the wood grain? Discover how to use gel stain to give uniform coverage to a wooden surface in an easy, user-friendly method.

October 18, 2019
Stained Side Table

How to Use Gel Stain

Do you have something you want to refinish but keep the wood grain visible? Discover how to use gel stain to give uniform coverage to a wooden surface in an easy, user-friendly method.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

How to Use Gel Stain
Loading Video...

Switching up the hue of an existing furniture piece can be as easy as applying a few coats of stain. With many stain options to choose from, we’re covering all the pros and cons of gel stain and how to use it. Gel stain is a go-to choice for DIYers because it delivers very uniform cover. The thick, pudding-like product sits atop the surface and won’t drip.

Gel stain works on most surfaces from wooden to metal, and even painted surfaces can be gel stained. 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. On the downside, gel stain is not available in as many color options as traditional stains. As with all stains, test it on a piece of scrap wood or in an inconspicuous area before you start.

Supplies Needed

  • gel stain
  • sandpaper
  • drop cloth
  • latex or nitrile gloves
  • rags
  • screwdriver
  • foam brush
  • polyurethane

Prep Surface

Unfinished furniture is ready to go, while furniture with an existing finish will need to be lightly sanded. If staining kitchen cabinets, degrease them with rinse-free, tri-sodium phosphate. To prep the surface, give it a quick wipe down with a fine-grit sandpaper. Then, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust.

Prep Surface

How to Use Gel Stain: Prep Surface

To prep the surface, give it a quick wipe down with a fine-grit sandpaper. Then, wipe the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Apply Stain

First, protect your work area with a plastic tarp or drop cloth. Remove any knobs or drawers from the piece you'll be staining. Next, use a screwdriver to easily open the container. Put on your gloves, and dip the foam brush into the stain. Wipe the stain evenly across the surface (Image 1). The first coat should be thick. Put it on and don’t wipe it away as you would when working with traditional stain. Then, apply the stain to any drawers or knobs using the same method (Image 2).

Remove Excess & Let Dry

Remove any excess or globs, especially from crevices, with a rag. This step is very important to ensure an even finish. The stain will retain a thick, pudding-like consistency and dry on the top of the surface. In dry environments, let the first coat cure for 24 hours.

Remove Excess

How to Use Gel Stain: Remove Excess

Remove any excess or globs, especially from crevices, with a rag. This step is very important to ensure an even finished outcome.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Apply Additional Coats

Unlike traditional stains, the thick product sits atop the surface being stained like paint. And like paint, you’ll find that you’re probably going to need multiple coats to get a perfect, streak-free finish. It’s going to dry looking quite streaky, but don’t worry, subsequent coats will be thinner. Keep in mind that the stain won’t absorb as much as a traditional stain. The gel stain will absorb slightly into unfinished wood but not into non-porous surfaces. Ideally, according to most manufacturer's guidelines, you should wait 24 hours between each coat. Expect to have to apply 2-3 coats until the finish is even or opaque.

Apply Stain

How to Use Gel Stain: Apply Stain

Wipe the stain evenly across the surface. The first coat should be thick. Put it on and don’t wipe it away as you would when working with traditional stain.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Apply Polyurethane

After you have reached your desired look, apply a coat of water-based polyurethane to protect the finished surface.

Apply Polyurethane

How to Use Gel Stain: Apply Polyurethane

After you have reached your desired look, apply a coat of water-based polyurethane to protect the finished surface.

Photo by: Jalynn Baker

Jalynn Baker

Once the product has dried, it’s ready for display.

Before

Jalynn Baker

After

How to Use Gel Stain
Jalynn Baker

Photo By: Jalynn Baker

How to Use Gel Stain

Do you have something you want to refinish but keep the wood grain visible? Discover how to use gel stain to give uniform coverage to a wooden surface in an easy, user-friendly method.

Photo By: Jalynn Baker

Next Up

How to Whitewash Wood: Whitewashing and Pickling Techniques

Easily brighten and add rustic charm to furniture and a variety of wood surfaces with these budget-friendly whitewashing and pickling techniques.

What's the Difference Between Polyurethane, Varnish, Shellac and Lacquer?

These terms for a finish or top coat are often used interchangeably, but there is a big difference. Learn when and where to use the correct one.

How to Stain a Wooden Deck

Enhance and protect your outdoor design by learning how to stain a deck with these simple steps using deck stain.

How to Refinish a Table

Easily refinish a dated or worn wood table to give it a fresh look.

How to Match Paint Colors

Whether you're trying to find paint to match an existing wall color or pull your inspiration color from an upholstered sofa, family heirloom or your favorite flower, here's how you can get that perfect color match in a can of paint.

How to German Smear a Brick Fireplace

Give your fireplace a faux finish that mimics what you'd find in old European cottages with a German smear mortar wash.

The Home Essentials You Should Always Buy New (Plus, the Ones to Get Secondhand!)

We're all about shopping vintage and scoring secondhand treasures, but some home items are simply worth buying new.

How to Stain & Stencil a Concrete Patio

Transform your drab slab into a bright, beautiful outdoor oasis with this easy stenciling project inspired by colorful Morrocan tile.

How to Stain or Paint a Wood Fence

Proper maintenance like applying a fresh coat of paint or stain to your fence will help make it last longer and keep it looking great. Follow these tips and instructions to turn your tired, old fence into a backyard statement piece.

How to Get Stains Out of Carpet

A good quality carpet could last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Learn how to remove stains from wine, nail polish, coffee and more.

Go Shopping

Get product recommendations from HGTV editors, plus can’t-miss sales and deals.

On TV

Follow Us Everywhere

Join the party! Don't miss HGTV in your favorite social media feeds.