How to Use Gel Stain Over a Finished Cabinet

Staining a cabinet is one way to change the look of your cabinets without the purchasing new cabinets. Gel stain is a type of finish that is thicker and easier to apply. This is because it coats porous and non-porous areas of the wood in a similar manner to achieve a more even appearance. Gel stains also do not run or splatter. However, gel stains do not look as realistic as thin-bodied stains and they can pool easier. Avoid these drawbacks when gel-staining a finished cabinet.

Screwdriver
180-grit sandpaper
220-grit sandpaper
Cloth
Wood sealer
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Unscrew the doors and pulls with a screwdriver.
- 2
  Sand the entire surface of the cabinet and cabinet doors with 180-grit sandpaper. This will rough up the surface, which will help the gel stain adhere better.
- 3
  Wipe off the sawdust with a water-dampened cloth and let the cabinets and doors dry completely.
- 4
  Dip a paintbrush into the wood sealer and apply a thin coat of sealer to the wood. Use a sealer that is compatible with gel stain. Let the sealer dry completely
- 5
  Gently sand the cabinets and cabinet door with 220-grit sandpaper. This will create an even surface for the gel stain.
- 6
  Dip a cloth into the gel stain and apply it to the cabinet. Brush in a circular direction. Let the stain sit for several minutes before buffing it off with a clean cloth.
- 7
  Repeat the gel stain process to even out the first coat and to make the cabinets look richer and darker. Let the stain dry completely.

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