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Blue is the least wood-like of General Finishes' 14 Dye Stain colors. It is a water-based dye in a pint can, and it works as a stain, a mixing color and a tint for clear coats. GF's other colors are Yellow, Amber, Light, Medium and Dark Brown, Orange, Empire Red, Vintage Cherry, Cinnamon, Merlot, Pewter, Ebony and Green, plus a clear Reducer.
Free shipping at $75, no code needed (lower 48 + DC). Unopened cans can be returned within 30 days with a prepaid label; opened paint can't (refund policy).
To lighten Blue, GF says to add Dye Stain Reducer in 10% increments until you reach the color you want. GF says it is not possible to over-mix Dye Stain and Reducer. Don't use water to lighten: Reducer contains ingredients that keep the color molecules evenly dispersed.
Toning means adding colorant to a topcoat and applying it over the whole piece to shift the color slightly. GF recommends Dye Stains for beginners because they contain only dyes, no pigments. Start with 5-10% by volume, which is normally 1-2 oz per quart of clear topcoat. For a slight color change, GF gives 10-20% stain to topcoat. Strain the mix, test it, and finish with a clear topcoat. Every GF water-based topcoat except Conversion Varnish can be tinted. GF caps colorant at 13 oz per gallon.
Seal it with 3 coats of topcoat. GF says more coats beyond three won't improve durability. Best used within a year of the date on the can. Shop topcoats for the finish coats.
Manufacturer part number: DPB
How do I make a lighter blue? Add General Finishes Dye Stain Reducer in 10% increments until you reach the color you want. GF says not to use water to lighten Dye Stain.
How much do I add to a topcoat to make a toner? GF recommends 10-20% Dye Stain to topcoat for a slight color change, or starting at 5-10% by volume (normally 1-2 oz per quart of clear topcoat). Strain through a fine mesh filter and test first.
Do I need a topcoat over Dye Stain? Yes. GF says to seal its Dye Stain with 3 coats of topcoat. Its toning guidance also says to finish with a clear topcoat to lock in the color.
Sources: Dye Stain technical data sheet (March 2020); General Finishes Dye Stain page.
Documents are published by General Finishes. Always follow the label and SDS.
Free standard shipping on orders $75+ to the lower 48 states and DC. Some large or heavy items are excluded at checkout.
30-day returns on unused, unopened items. Returns accepted within 30 days. We send you a prepaid return label. Contact us within 30 days of delivery to start a return. Opened paint, aerosols, flammables, special orders and sale items can't be returned. Read the full refund policy.
Use this product page for the exact item, then check the Weekend Project Carts for prep, applicators, patch, cleanup, and finishing supplies. If you are still choosing a method, start with the Project Guides before adding everything to cart.
