Stain paints are great for adding a warm hue to floors, furniture, and other objects. If you're going to apply a stain to an object that's already been painted, you don't need to scrape it off first. Gel-type stains can adhere to the paint without damaging the color or peeling off over time. After cleaning and applying stain, the object will have a bright paint color and a warm stain hue!
Step
Part 1 of 3: Cleaning and Sanding Surfaces
Step 1. Clean the object with a mild solvent
Use dish soap or a mild cleaner to get rid of any dirt or grease on the object. Dip a washcloth in the solvent and use it to wipe the entire surface of the object, then dry with another rag.
Stain will adhere better to clean objects without dirt and grease
Step 2. Smooth the object with 320 grit sandpaper
Spray water on the object and the sanding block, then press the block against the object. Rub 320 grit sandpaper lightly on the object in a circular motion to remove small bumps and blemishes.
Try not to press too hard when sanding because the paint can come off if you press too hard
Step 3. Wipe off any remaining sanding dust before drying the object
Dip a washcloth in water and use it to wipe off any remaining sanding dust. Wipe off any excess water with a dry cloth, and let it dry if it's still wet before starting to apply the stain.
Once the item has dried, you can apply the stain to the paint
Step 4. Put on gloves and a respirator
Typically, stains have a strong odor and color that can irritate the skin or respiratory system. To protect the skin and lungs, wear gloves and a respirator before applying the stain.
Since stains can stain fabrics, wear clothing that can be soiled
Step 5. Spread the cloth in an open and airy area
Choose a work place with smooth air flow, preferably outdoors. Spread out the backing cloth to catch the paint drips so they don't contaminate the work area.
If you can't work outdoors, spread a cloth near an open door or window if possible
Part 2 of 3: Applying the First Layer of Stain Gel
Step 1. Use the stain gel to completely cover the paint
Choose a gel stain with a darker color than the initial paint color. Try not to overwrite dark paint with bright colored stains because the stain will not show on the surface.
Not all stains absorb paint well, so the gel type is the best option for a rich, even color
Step 2. Apply the stain gel using a foam brush
Dip a foam brush into the gel stain and apply it to a small part of the surface of the object you want to paint. Check your first smear of gel stain to make sure it's the color you want before applying it to all surfaces.
Try not to use polyurethane or wax-based stains on the paint as they will not absorb into the paint well
Step 3. Coat the entire surface of the object with stain
Continue to rub the stain from one end of the surface to the other, while superimposing it evenly. Apply the gel until you get a thin and even layer so that no streaks or bumps appear when it's dry.
Start in an inconspicuous area so if you don't like the color, you can easily clean it and use another stain
Step 4. Check the first coat and remove excess gel stain
The first layer of stain should be thin and even. Check the stain gel and make sure there are no thick areas, and use a staining pad to wipe off the remaining stain gel.
In order for the stain color to be lighter and more durable when it overwrites the paint color, it is better to apply a thin layer of stain gel
Part 3 of 3: Applying Additional Coatings and Cover Paint
Step 1. Apply 2-3 additional coats of stain gel
Let the first coat dry for an hour, then apply the next layer using the same technique. Depending on the desired color, apply 2-3 coats of stain over the first coat, and wait an hour for it to dry before applying the next coat.
The more layers you apply, the stronger and richer the color will be
Step 2. Wait for the stain gel to harden for 24-48 hours
After you have applied several coats of stain, lay the object on a flat surface. Allow 1-2 days for the stain to dry before objects can be moved or touched.
This waiting time may vary depending on the stain used. Read the instructions for use on the packaging for the exact waiting time
Step 3. Apply the cover paint over the dried stain
Dip a foam brush in the clear cover paint and gently dab the surface of the object. Once the paint has completely covered the surface of the object, allow it to dry for 30-60 minutes to allow the item to seal well before it can be touched.
- The clear cover paint will protect the gel stain so it doesn't peel or fade.
- To get a smooth and bright shiny result, choose a semi-gloss type of cover paint (semi-gloss).
Tips
- Usually, the stain will give a warm and dark color to the object.
- If you previously painted an object with a dark color, you should scrape the paint off first so that the stain can look optimal. You can also paint things a lighter color before applying the stain, if you prefer.
- Choose a stain that is designed according to the material being painted for maximum results and lasts longer. For example, if the object to be colored is made of wood, use a wood stain.
