Is gel stain better or easier to apply than regular?..

Jaxxq said:

I have a large dining table to do in a dark expresso finish, would using a gel stain be easier ? Better?

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To answer your question, gel stains in general are very easy to use. They can be applied over most any surface. For a specific brand, it's best to follow product application directions. But generally, it's liberally applied, and wiped down to the desired coverage. If too much stain is left on and not wiped down, it can have an extended dry time.

Oil base stains have the longest working time, and because of the resins in the stain which somewhat seal wood fibers, usually gives a one time application to achieve the desired color. These need to be applied, allowed to sit for a few minutes and then wiped off.

Waterbased stains dry fast and can be recoated to get additional staining. Coverages should be worked out when being wiped off to minimize the overlapping from one application to another. Grain raising isn't a major problem. I wouldn't sand the stained wood, or the first topcoat or two after staining. You don't want to be sanding off the stained application. This also applies to using an oil based stain or using dyes.

Dyes work very well. Waterbased dyes are applied and finished as waterbased stains. Alcohol (methanol) based dyes dry very fast, don't raise the grain, and have to be worked to minimize overlap. They can be called NGR (non grain raising). Any stain or dye can be sprayed, but still may require to be wiped to get an even coverage.






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