Cabinet Glazing Techniques Using Gel Stain

Using Multiple Coats

• Because gel stains do not soak into wood deeply, they sometimes require multiple coats to stain wood the desired color. If one or two coats of gel stain do not provide enough color, consider adding three or four coats. Allow the stain to dry in between each coat.

Sanding Between Coats

• Experts recommend buffing the wood in between coats of gel stain to remove gel stain buildup. When sanding by hand, use a 220-grit sandpaper and sand with the grain of the wood. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before buffing it and applying another coat of stain.

Painting Crevices

• One downside to gel stains is that their thick texture causes them to build up in corners and crevices. To avoid this problem, consider glazing the wood for new cabinets after sanding and cutting the pieces of wood but before assembling the cabinets. If the cabinets are already put together, paint corners and crevices in the wood with as light a coat as possible to avoid buildup. For cabinets with lots of detailed carvings and crevices, a liquid stain might work better than a gel stain.

Temperature Control

• Temperature affects the way new oil-based stains dry. Most gel stains are oil-based, and oil-based stains tend to bubble when they are applied to a cool surface that warms up as the stain dries. Avoid painting the cabinets right before sun comes in the window and warms them up. Also avoid turning on the heat or drastically changing the temperature in the room as the cabinet stain dries.

Safety Techniques

• Oil-based wood stains, including gel stains, often give off harsh fumes that can be unhealthy to inhale. Use gel stains and stain removers in well-ventilated areas. Open windows, open doors and turn on exhaust fans to let the fumes out. Gel stains can also irritate skin, so wear protective clothing and gloves if you think the stain might get on your hands.