Minwax Gel Stain for Interior Wood Surfaces, ½ Pint, Chestnut

I refinished my front door and used this gel stain in “Chestnut.” I was totally surprised at how easily this stuff goes on. First I tried using foam brushes but that was a nightmare so I switched to a cloth to apply/wipe the stain and it was perfect. Word of warning, though, make sure you wear gloves and put a cover under the piece you’re staining. Also, the better you sand beforehand, the better the rain looks! The color is rich and gorgeous and matches the beams on my house as well. I still have to apply the clear varnish but I’m already catching myself staring at the door because it looks so great!

I bought the walnut shade, it made my old kitchen cabinets, desk and end tables look brand new again with a beautiful shine like it was just polished! The gel doesnt drip so its easy to apply. Tends to be sticky until fully dry, at least 24 hrs, but once dry, wow, smooth and shiny! Nice color! Love this product!

Well I opened the can and thought OMG this isn't gonna work. It's like a jelly. it was too thick for me. I read where someone mixed it for about 10 minutes in which i did not do to get it to thin down enough. I mixed it a little. BUT if it is too thick still, you can always add the liquid kind in with it the make it less thick...and is what I did. Doing doors this works well. It also can give you a heavier coat if needed. The liquid thinned it out too much so I had to apply a second coat. Using this you don't need to. So i definitely like this stuff NOW. I have done 15 doors total. FYI-Walnut is not dark walnut.

The product worked well on an old kitchen cabinet. Restored the shine and the wood grains. It did not darken the cabinets too much which I personally liked. If you are hoping to darken your furniture with this gel stain be ready to apply several coats. This gel is not very easy to apply evenly when using a rag, so I would suggest using a cheap one-time brush. Also, to take the excess off I would strongly recommend using a polishing attachment for your drill or rotary tool instead of another rag or towel.

Highly recommend! I painted my metal garage doors with this gel stain in Walnut and am incredibly happy! My door was white, it definitely needed to coats but it goes on super easy. I recommend waiting the full 8-10 hours between coats until it’s dry and non-sticky to the touch. I finished it off with a clear gloss and voila! Fresh garage doors. It doesn’t drip and it doesn’t need to be wiped off after application like traditional stain. Will definitely be buying again for other projects!

My garage used to be white. I did a base coat of a beige for the undertone. This was such a simple way to upgrade my garage. Very happy with the results! Prep work makes all the difference!

The can was dented on almost all sides.

Looks great. Granted its for interior but its under a tent and has 4 layers od spar urethane. Better than the limited colors in my area for exterior stain