How To Gel Stain Kitchen Cabinets

How to Gel Stain Kitchen Cabinets

Gel staining kitchen cabinets is an excellent way to update your kitchen without breaking the bank. Gel stains are easy to use, provide a smooth, even finish, and are less messy than traditional stains.

Materials You'll Need:

Gel cabinet stain in your desired color
Clean rags or cloths
Foam brushes or daubers
Nitrile gloves
Stirring stick
Mineral spirits (for cleanup)
Sandpaper or sanding sponge (optional)
Polyurethane or other finish

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the cabinets:

Remove all hardware, including knobs, handles, and hinges.
Clean the cabinet surfaces thoroughly with a damp cloth.
(Optional) For a smoother finish, lightly sand the cabinet surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge.

2. Stir the gel stain:

Stir the gel stain thoroughly to distribute the pigments evenly.

3. Apply the gel stain:

Wear nitrile gloves to protect your hands.

Dip a foam brush or dauber into the gel stain and apply it to the cabinet surfaces in an even, smooth layer.

Work in small sections at a time.

4. Allow the gel stain to penetrate:

Let the gel stain sit on the cabinets for the time specified on the manufacturer's instructions. This will allow the stain to penetrate the wood.

5. Wipe off excess stain:

Wipe off any excess gel stain with a clean cloth. Wipe in the direction of the wood grain.

6. Repeat steps 3-5 for additional coats:

For a richer color, you can apply additional coats of gel stain. Repeat steps 3-5 for each coat.

7. Seal the cabinets:

Once the gel stain is completely dry, apply a protective finish such as polyurethane. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application.

8. Reattach the hardware:

Once the finish is dry, reattach the cabinet hardware.

Tips:

Test the gel stain on an inconspicuous area first to ensure you're happy with the color and finish.
Use a light touch when applying the gel stain to avoid streaks or runs.
If you get gel stain on your skin, wipe it off with mineral spirits immediately.
Allow the gel stain to dry completely before applying a finish to prevent discoloration.
Gel stains can be layered to create unique effects. Experiment with different colors and application techniques.