General Finishes Gel Stain

General Finishes oil-based Gel Stain is a heavy-bodied interior stain known for deep, even color on furniture and cabinets. Per General Finishes, it does not penetrate as deeply as liquid wipe-on oil stains, which is why it builds rich color and can be used over an existing finish when the surface is cleaned and scuff-sanded. Interior only. Topcoat is required.

Application is brush, roll, or wipe-on (not sprayable). One or more coats; most projects use one or two. On raw wood, General Finishes lists dry to touch about 8+ hours and recoat about 12 to 24+ hours in ideal conditions (70°F, 50% humidity). Over an existing finish with wipe-off technique, expect longer dry times (often 12 to 24+ hours to touch and 72+ hours before recoat or topcoat). Always wait until the stain is non-tacky and cool to the touch.

Seal with 3 coats of topcoat. Pair with General Finishes High Performance (water-based, dries clear) or an oil-based topcoat such as Arm-R-Seal or Gel Topcoat. When using High Performance over Gel Stain, General Finishes says to let the oil-based stain dry 72+ hours first. Cleanup with mineral spirits; dispose of oily rags in a sealed, water-filled metal container.

Shop related: wood stains and gel stains, all General Finishes, and the furniture refinishing cart.

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