General Finishes Water-Based Stain, Cabernet, Pint
General Finishes Water-Based Wood Stain in Cabernet, Pint, adds pigmented color to interior wood furniture and cabinetry. This pint can covers about 50–75 sq ft, depending on the wood and application. Test the complete stain-and-topcoat process first: species, preparation and the old finish affect the result.
Features
- Pigmented color highlights interior wood projects.
- A workable formula supports controlled application on woods such as pine and maple.
- Can update a prepared existing finish with thin dry-brushed coats.
- An optional second raw-wood coat deepens color after drying.
Best for
Indoor wood cabinets, furniture, trim and doors. Use on raw wood or a cleaned, sanded existing finish after an adhesion test. Compare the Cabernet maple and oak swatches, then test your own wood and topcoat.
Specs
| Color / size | Cabernet / Pint |
|---|---|
| Base / use | Water-based pigmented stain / interior |
| Coverage | About 50–75 sq ft per can |
| Touch dry | Raw wood: 30 minutes or longer; existing finish: 1 hour or longer |
| Recoat / full cure | 2 hours or longer, when dry / no cure duration specified; TDS lists N/A |
| Coats | Raw wood: 1–2; existing finish: up to 3 thin dry-brushed coats; finish with 3 compatible GF topcoat coats |
| Apply with | Synthetic-bristle or foam brush, pad, microfiber roller or spray; HVLP 1.1–1.3 mm |
| Thinning | Distilled water: start at 5%, up to 10% by volume if needed |
| Cleanup | Soap and water or GF Brush & Gun Cleaner, immediately |
| VOC | Under 145 g/L, Cabernet SDS revised February 2, 2024 |
| Manufacturer part # | WZPT |
How to apply
- For raw wood, sand with 120 grit, followed by 150 or 220 grit, and remove dust. For a sealed finish, scuff-clean with a non-woven pad and a 50:50 denatured alcohol/water mix, dry 1–2 hours, then lightly sand with 220–320 grit. Remove dust and test adhesion.
- Ventilate and stir before and throughout use. On raw wood, flood one manageable section with a brush or pad, then wipe excess with the grain using an absorbent towel. Pull pools from details; correct lap marks immediately by rewetting the whole working area and wiping again.
- On an existing finish, use thin dry-brushed coats with a foam brush or staining pad and feather uneven spots. Avoid thick build. Allow at least two hours between coats and until dry.
- Apply three compatible topcoat coats after full drying. Wait at least 24 hours before an oil-based topcoat. Times assume about 70°F and 50% humidity; cool, humid or thick applications take longer.
Good to know
Use cloths for wiping, not applying; cotton T-shirts do not absorb excess well. Optional Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural can improve uniformity but limits color absorption. Oil-based topcoats can amber; test your choice. Follow current Extender and spray instructions, including the specified respirator and ventilation. This color SDS lists no signal word and identifies the mixture as not classified; follow its handling instructions. Read the Cabernet safety sheet and can label. Dispose under local rules; do not pour leftovers down drains.
Questions
Can I use it over a finished cabinet? Yes, after preparation and a successful adhesion test, using thin coats.
Will the swatch match my wood exactly? No. Species, preparation and topcoat affect color; test first.
Does it need a topcoat? Yes. The stain supplies color; a compatible topcoat protects it.