Last fall I wrote a post sharing my method for staining with gel stain over an existing finish. I wanted to create a visual to help show people so I made a gel stain video tutorial. Please note that this method is definitely not for every piece of furniture (some need to be stripped). I only do it on pieces that are is pretty good condition that need a bit of freshening up and that I want a darker wood look for. I talk more about the pieces I use this method on here.
Supplies
- fine sanding sponge*
- spray bottle*
- paper towels/rags
- 400 grit sandpaper*
- staining pads
- foam brushes* (or extra pieces of foam to apply stain)
- Java gel stain*
- HP Satin Topcoat*
- Synthetic brush* to apply poly (these are my favorite!)
Here’s a quick run-down and recap of the steps shared here and in the video of how to use gel stain over an existing finish. Watch the video or read the original post for more detailed information.
How to Apply Gel Stain
- Clean the areas you are going to stain.
- Next, wet sand with a fine grit sanding sponge. Let dry.
- Lightly sand with 400 grit sandpaper (not wet sanding). Wipe clean.
- Apply gel stain with a foam brush in one even coat. Use staining pads to wipe off excess.
- Once everything is stained, let it dry. It needs 24-48 hours. Be patient. š
- Once dry, apply the topcoat with a synthetic brush.
I’ve used this method on a number of pieces like this modern credenza with glossy white top, this geometric dresser, my favorite high gloss mid century dresser, and the most recent furniture makeover. It’s a really great way to refresh a piece while keeping its vintage integrity intact. The doesn’t lose its character. Here’s another look at how this the dresser from the video turned out.
You can find more video tutorials here, or visit and subscribe to my Youtube channel. Follow along on social media to see updates and what else I’m working on:
Instagram | Facebook | Youtube | Pinterest | Twitter
If you use this method to refresh a piece, let me know! Leave a comment or shoot me am email, and I love to see photos of what you create so share them with me on social media.
Until next time…
Reeves
Reeves, can I post this on a fb forum that I am on? Someone was asking me yesterday how to stain, and I told her I would find her a video to watch.
Absolutely! Thanks, Teri!
Maybe this is a dumb questions but what do you mean by “wet sand”? Wet the area you are sanding?
Yes, I just wet the surface and the sandpaper I’m using with a spray bottle and lightly sand. I explained more in the original post I wrote last year (it’s linked in this post). This post was more sharing a video and the older post went into more detail on the steps I take. Hope this helps! š
can you apply gel stain with a cloth?
I have applied gel stain with a cloth and it’s doable, just VERY messy!
Iām using gel stain and need to apply a second coat, should I sand in between?
I have a bed frame that has a white wash type finish with wood grain showing. Would this method with the java stain work for that? I’d hate to waste the money and have to redo the whole project. Thanks!
I think the white wash would show through and might not be what you want.
I have applied one coat of gel stain. I can see sanding marks. I plan on applying 3 coats of stain bc I want piece to be black. Will stain cover these marks or do I need to start over.
Thank you!
Iām wondering if this could be done on my or orange toned outdated steps and staircase
Very good information. Lucky me I ran across your website by chance (stumbleupon).
I have saved as a favorite for later!