Have you been daydreaming about a kitchen remodel—but don't have the time or budget for it? Don't give up just yet. With the right supplies and a little bit of know-how, you can makeover your cabinets without replacing them!
Gel stain is an easy-to-use product that can instantly update those outdated cabinets. It's perfect for those times when you don't want to repaint or refurbish, but still want a dramatic change. Plus, it doesn't take a lot of experience or skill to use it—you can do it yourself in no time!
In this post, we’ll break down the basics of how to use gel stain to instantly upgrade your old cabinets. You'll learn which supplies you’ll need, what to look for in a product, and how to get started with step-by-step instructions. Ready? Let's begin!
Choosing the Right Gel Stain
Gel stain is an easy and convenient way to update your tired-looking cabinets and ensure they look as good as new ones. But before you get started, the most important step is to choose the right gel stain for your project.
For best results, you need to choose one that's compatible with the type of wood your cabinets are made of. So, if you're unsure what type of wood your cabinets are made of, it's a good idea to get a professional opinion before you start.
It’s also worth considering the color of the gel stain, as this will affect the finished look and will influence whether or not it matches with existing décor. Consider using a sample before committing to a full application of gel stain to make sure it's what you're looking for.
Preparing the Cabinets for Staining
Prepping your cabinets for gel staining is an important part of the process. You'll need to clean the surface with a degreaser, sand off any existing paint, and fill in any chips or cracks with wood filler. The key is to make sure the surface is completely smooth before staining; any imperfections can be highlighted after the stain has been applied.
To start prepping, you'll want to:
- Clean the cabinet doors with a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner and let them dry completely.
- Sand down rough spots on the cabinets with fine sandpaper and use a tack cloth to remove all dust before moving on to staining.
- Fill in chips or cracks in the wood with wood filler and then sand smooth once dry.
- Remove any hardware from the cabinets by unscrewing hinges and knobs. This will make it easier for you to apply a smooth coat of gel stain onto every surface.
These simple steps will give your cabinets the perfect foundation for staining; once completed, you’ll be ready to start applying gel stain!
Applying a Base Coat of Stain
Before you apply the gel stain, you'll want to apply a base coat of stain to prep your cabinets and make sure you get an even color when staining.
Here's what you'll need:
- A foam brush
- Paint tape
- Oil-based wood stain in the desired color
- Drop cloths/tarp
Steps:
- Gather all your supplies and protect your floor and countertops with drop cloths or tarps.
- Use paint tape to protect any hardware, hinges, and surrounding areas from the stain.
- Dip the foam brush into the oil-based wood stain and start applying it onto all surfaces of the door, frames, and drawers – including their edges -- making sure it's evenly distributed. This is also a great way to fill in any cracks or dents that have occurred over time due to wear and tear.
- Once it’s completely dry, move on to applying the gel stain!
Adding Blending & Color Grooming
A huge benefit of using Gel Stain to instantly update old cabinets is that you can add blending and color grooming.
Blending
Gel Stain makes it easy to blend color since it's much thicker than traditional oil-based stains—it creates soft transitions between colors. You can even use multiple colors in the same batch of gel stain so that you get a unique look. And because it's so thick, Gel Stain allows you to create a layered look on your cabinets.
Color Grooming
Color grooming is one of the best ways to make your cabinets look like new. The process involves applying multiple coats of different colors over the original finish. You can soften hard edges and use feathery brush strokes with Gel Stain so that it looks like you've replaced your cabinets from scratch!
If you want to give an amazing finish result, then adding blending and color grooming with Gel Stain is the way to go. Taking the time to add these extra details will really show off your artistic skills and give your cabinets that professional finish.
Protecting the Stained Cabinets
The final step in the cabinet update process is protecting the stained cabinets. Gel stain will usually dry within a few hours, but you want to be sure that your cabinets are fully sealed and protected against any dirt and spills.
To protect the stain and wood underneath, you’ll want to topcoat the cabinets with a protective finish after they have dried. A clear coat of paint or sealant can help keep the finish looking great for years to come.
Here are a few tips for protecting your cabinets:
- Use a high-quality urethane-based sealer like polyurethane, which will last for years without cracking or peeling.
- Apply multiple coats of urethane, making sure to thoroughly cover all surfaces.
- Let each layer dry before applying another coat.
- Sand between each coat of urethane with a 220 grit sandpaper before moving onto the next coating.
- Finish off with an appropriate wax or polish (depending on what type of surface it is) to add an extra layer of protection and shine!
Finishing Touches for a Smooth Look
Putting the finishing touches on your cabinets is essential for a smooth, professional-looking finish. Applying gel stain is an easy way to finish off your cabinet transformation project. Here are a few things you should know about finishing with gel stain:
Sanding
Sanding the surface of your cabinets before applying gel stain is important for two main reasons:
- It removes any dirt or debris that could affect the finished product.
- It helps the gel stain adhere more effectively.
Start with 120 grit sandpaper and sand in the same direction as the grain of the wood.
Applying Gel Stain
Gel stain goes on differently than regular paint or stain, so be sure to read all directions carefully before applying. Using a brush or roller, lightly spread the gel stain with long even strokes following the grain of the wood. Allow time to dry and then add a second layer in thin coats if desired.
Finishing Up
Once you have achieved your desired look, use 150-180 grit sandpaper to soften corners and edges. Finally, wipe off excess dust with a clean cloth and apply a clear wax or oil-based sealer for protection from scratches and wear and tear.
By following these easy steps, you can use gel stain to instantly update your old cabinets for an entirely new look!
Conclusion
Refinishing your cabinets with gel stain can be a relatively easy and affordable way to drastically change the look of your kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a simple, one-step facelift or you’re ready to take on an all-out renovation project, gel stain is a great way to instantly update your cabinets and give your kitchen a whole new look.
Not only does gel stain give your cabinets a stylish facelift, but it also helps to protect the original finish and make sure your cabinets last for years to come. All it takes is a few simple supplies and a bit of elbow grease, and you can have the cabinets of your dreams - no matter what your budget!