Applying gel stains to a woodworking project is easy to apply and the advantages of applying it are great because of the depth of color it can give to the finished wood. However, there are a few things you need to consider before you decide whether you use gel stains.

Proper preparation is all important. In the same way you use any other stains or paint finishes, you need to properly, and adequately sand the project first. Sand the wood with a finely gritted 220 grit sandpaper. For a better finish hand sand the project to get a perfect finish. Once you're finished sanding, use a vacuum to remove all the sawdust and dust of the project. Then wipe the project with a tack cloth and denatured alcohol to insure that the surface is free of all traces of dust. The denatured alcohol won't discolor the surface and it will evaporate quickly.

How to apply the gel stain:

When you're applying a gel stain, remember that you need to spread it on the wood thickly for a few minutes, before wiping it off using a clean cloth. When you wipe down the project using this method, this will ensure that you're applying the stain and depth of color evenly. Always remember that the more you wipe away the stain, the lighter the shade of the finished stain will become.

The right way of applying a gel stain requires you to apply a generous amount onto the surface with the help of a brush or clean rag. Be careful that you read the manufacturer's instructions to determine how long you need to leave the stain on the surface before you wipe it off.

When wiping the stain off, be sure you're wearing protective gloves, and use a clean cloth. Wipe with the grain and have your focus on getting the color evened out till you get to the desired shade. Continuously go on a rotational motion till you get the color you want.

When it comes to wiping your project down, it can be very difficult to remove it when it gets into all the nooks and crannies. As an example, when you're applying a gel stain on a coffee table, it's quite difficult to get it out of the corners. If you allow the stain to stay here, it gets to be noticeable and is more difficult to deal with. Be very careful that you don’t over-apply the stain onto and intersections or corners.

Keep in mind that adequate ventilation is important when you're working with these types of stains because they often give of toxic fumes.

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