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Minwax® Gel Stain is specifically designed to give you full control over the staining process and help you achieve beautiful results. The unique non-drip formula makes application easy and delivers uniform color even on hard-to-stain woods.
Application Tool: | brush, cloth or foam applicator |
Location: | interior or exterior* surfaces (* must be top-coated with an exterior clear top-coat) |
Recoat: | 8-10 hours |
Dry time: | 24 hours |
Cleanup: | mineral spirits |
Coverage: | 200 sq. ft. per quart |
Coats: | 1-2 depending on the surface |
Recommended Uses: | woodwork, furniture, doors, molding, trim, cabinets, accessories |
Q. What makes Minwax® Gel Stain different from traditional stains such as Minwax® Wood Finish™?
As its name implies, Gel Stain has a gelled consistency. The non-drip formula makes it an ideal choice for vertical surfaces. Because it is thick-bodied, it stays more toward the surface of the wood, allowing greater color control during application. In addition, Gel Stain can be applied to non-wood surfaces, including metal and fiberglass, to give them a beautiful wood appearance.
Q. Does Minwax® Gel Stain need to be top-coated?
For added beauty and protection, we recommend topcoating all interior projects with a protective clear finish such as Minwax® Fast-Drying Polyurethane or Minwax® Water Based Oil-Modified Polyurethane. For exterior applications, use Minwax® Helmsman® Spar Urethane.
Q. What's the best way to apply Gel Stain to a fiberglass door?
Fiberglass is non-porous and won't absorb the stain the way a wood surface does. So, it's best to apply Gel Stain with a bristle brush. Excess Stain should be evened out with the brush - not wiped away with a rag. See application instructions on this website.
Q. Should Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner be used with Gel Stain?
Yes. Some woods, such as pine and maple, tend to absorb stains unevenly. Before using Gel Stain, Minwax® Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner should be applied to ensure even stain penetration.
WARNING! Removal of old paint by sanding, scraping or other means may generate dust or fumes that contain lead. Exposure to lead dust or fumes may cause brain damage or other adverse health effects, especially in children or pregnant women. Controlling exposure to lead or other hazardous substances requires the use of proper protective equipment such as a properly fitted respirator (NIOSH approved) and proper containment and cleanup. For more information, call the National Lead Information Center at 1-800-424-LEAD (in US) or contact your local health authority.
WOOD PROJECTS:
Surface Preparation:
Product Preparation and Color Testing:
Stain Application:
Clear Finish Application:
FIBERGLASS DOOR PROJECTS:
For ease of staining and finishing, it is recommended that you finish the door before installation.
Preparation:
Stain Application:
Clear Finish Application:
METAL DOOR PROJECTS:
Surface Preparation:
Stain Application:
Graining:
Helpful Hints: On metal doors, use masking tape to mask off areas where sections meet. Let the section dry to the touch before working on a section next to it. This will ensure a clean, straight edge where panels meet.
COVERAGE: Approximately 200 sq. ft. per quart.
CLEANUP: Use mineral spirits or paint thinner.
The colours shown are for reference purposes only. They have been reproduced using digital production techniques. Always test stain on a hidden area of the wood to verify desired colour.
![]() Honey Maple |
![]() Aged Oak |
![]() Mahogany |
![]() Antique Maple |
![]() Chestnut |
![]() Walnut |
![]() Cherrywood |
![]() Brazilian Rosewood |