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Internet # 308461690

Model # 349700

1 Quart Black Semi-Transparent Interior Wood Gel Stain (2-Pack)

$49.98
/case
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  • Thick gel stain for use on vertical surfaces to apply rich color
  • Sticks to wood, metal and fiberglass to prevent drips or runs
  • Easy to use stain covers up to 200 sq. ft. per quart
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Product Details

About This Product

Varathane 1 Qt. Black Wood Interior Gel Stain is a convenient and easy to use stain that provides deep, rich color to enhance the natural grain of the wood. Rich, thick stain formula provides twice the coverage of traditional oil-based stains. Thicker consistency prevents drips and runs.

Highlights

  • Gel Stain designed to enhance natural grain of wood surfaces, works especially well for doors, molding, windows, trim, paneling and other vertical surfaces
  • Covers up to 200 sq. ft., most surfaces require only 1 coat
  • Semi-transparent formula provides a natural color that allows wood grain to come through
  • Easy to use gel formula provides ultimate control during vertical application
  • Will not leave lap marks or grain raise on surfaces
  • Use to create a natural wood look on metal, fiberglass and composite doors
  • Cleans up with mineral spirits
  • Works on interior or exterior surfaces, protect with appropriate polyurethane following use
  • Allow a minimum 8 hours before applying oil-based poly and 24 hours before water based poly
  • New project? Click here to find the right wood stain products
  • Browse Available Floor Refinishing Tool Rental Options
  • Return Policy
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     see Prop 65 WARNINGS

Product Information

Internet # 308461690

Model # 349700

Specifications

Dimensions

Container Size

1 Quart

Coverage Area (sq. ft.)

200 sq ft

Details

Application

General Purpose

Application Method

Brush, Wipe On

Base Material

Oil Based

Color Family

Brown / Tan

Color/Finish

Black

Dry to Touch (min.)

120 min

Interior/Exterior

Interior

Number of coats recommended

1

Number per Package

2

Paint/Stain Clean Up

Mineral Spirits

Paint/Stain Features

No Drip

Product Form

Gel

Returnable

90-Day

Substrate Condition

Bare Wood, Finished Wood, Old/Reclaimed Wood, Stained Wood, Unfinished Wood

Surface Material Use

Wood

Time before recoating (hours)

2

Transparency

Semi-Transparent

Vertical/Horizontal

Vertical / Horizontal

Wood Effects

No Additional Effect

Warranty / Certifications

Manufacturer Warranty

Satisfaction guaranteed for full refund of purchase price

Questions & Answers

can this stain be used on an exterior door
ByAug 1, 2026
1 Answer | 
Answer This Question

Gary, we've got you covered! Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain can be applied to exterior surfaces such as wood, fiberglass, and composite doors. We do recommend a clear coat for the best protection. The clear we recommend is Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Spar Urethane. Allow the gel stain to dry for at least 24 hours before applying the spar urethane. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-qt-Clear-Gloss-Water-Based-Exterior-Spar-Urethane-250041H/100162024 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10

By|Aug 6, 2026


    Is this a low VOC product good for staining new interior walls of a cabin?
    ByJul 28, 2026
    1 Answer | 
    Answer This Question

    Happy to help, Steve! While Rust-Oleum Varathane Premium Gel Stain can be used on interior surfaces, it is still oil-based and needs to be applied in a space with good ventilation and air circulation. This helps ensure proper drying and prevents any lingering odors. Since this is a gel stain, it is a great choice for vertical surfaces! - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

    By|Jul 28, 2026


      If used on already stained cabinets, how long should one wait before applying topcoat and then how long should one wait reinstalling cabinet doors.
      ByJul 9, 2026
      1 Answer | 
      Answer This Question

      Andy, happy to help! After applying Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain, allow the stain to dry a minimum of 4 hours before topcoating with an oil-based finish and at least 24 hours before recoating with a water-based finish. For reinstalling the cabinet doors, we recommend following the topcoat label instructions and allowing the coating to fully cure before reattaching them. This will help ensure the finish has reached its maximum hardness and durability. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10

      By|Jul 9, 2026


        Can this be used on veneered composite or particle board? If not, what can you recommend that I can use to refinish an "L" shaped desk? There are various areas that are similar to the image that need to be refinished if it's possible.
        ByJul 6, 2026
        1 Answer | 
        Answer This Question

        Happy to help, Bob! Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain can be applied to wood or engineered wooden surfaces like veneer or particle board. We always recommend applying a small test application to an inconspicuous area to ensure the results are to your liking. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

        By|Jul 23, 2026

          (1)

          How long does it take to dry?
          ByJun 5, 2026
          1 Answer | 
          Answer This Question

          Great question, Grace! When applying Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain to finished wood, metal, fiberglass, and plastic, it can take up to 24 hours to dry. If applying to bare wood and you are applying a polyurethane over it, we recommend waiting at least 4 hours for oil-based finishes and 24 hours for water-based. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

          By|Jun 5, 2026


            When can I coat with polyurethane.?
            ByMay 28, 2026
            1 Answer | 
            Answer This Question

            Great question! We recommend allowing Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain dry for at least 4 hours before applying an oil-based finish, and at least 24 hours if topcoating with a water-based finish. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

            By|May 28, 2026


              Will this product hold up on the outside of a fiberglass door w/o a storm door?
              ByMay 3, 2026
              1 Answer | 
              Answer This Question

              Jeff, we've got you covered! When Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain is applied to exterior surfaces such as a door, we do recommend a clear coat for best protection. The clear we recommend is Rust-Oleum Varathane Water-Based Spar Urethane. Allow the gel stain to dry for at least 24 hours before applying the spar urethane. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Varathane-1-qt-Clear-Gloss-Water-Based-Exterior-Spar-Urethane-250041H/100162024 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10

              By|Jul 23, 2026

                (1)

                I'm trying to intentionally include scratches, scuffs, & other imperfections in the wood to create an aged, somewhat distressed look. Will this fill in/eliminate those features? Would a water-based or oil-based be preferable to this gel-based? Thanks!
                ByMay 3, 2026
                1 Answer | 
                Answer This Question

                Randy, we are here to help. However, to ensure that Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain is the best product for your needs, we'd like to talk further. Please give us a call at 800-901-0411. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10

                By|May 4, 2026


                  Viewing 1-8 of 219

                  Customer Reviews

                  4.1 out of 5

                  • 4.1 out of 1,038 reviews
                  • 69% recommend this product
                  Filter by:
                  Showing 1-10 of 1,038 reviews
                  This customer chose to rate the product and not provide text.
                  by
                  • Verified Purchase
                  The color shown on the door is a mix of 1 part Carbon Gray & 2 parts Dark Walnut. Used on hollow-core veneer doors. Dark Walnut alone left too much red undertone, but this blend gave me the cooler brown I wanted. Cured in about 24 hours. I’d use it again.
                  by
                  Competitively priced, easy to apply, rich color. Prefer this manufacturer over its competition because its formulation makes it easy to apply without runs.
                  by
                  This customer chose to rate the product and not provide text.
                  by
                  I really like this beautiful rich color of the Kona. The gel stain goes on easily and stays in place. Happy with it.
                  by
                  • Verified Purchase
                  Color doesn't match
                  The color on the can doesn’t match the actual color at all which is very disappointing. When I opened the case, it was greenish but did not pay attention to. But proceed with my project, thinking it will be ok, I obtained like a dirty green/olive trim, Very disappointed
                  by
                  Response from Rust-OleumSupportOct 28, 2025
                  Doune, something is amiss. We would like to talk further about your application and get to the bottom of what could've happened. Please give us a call at 800-901-0411. When calling in, have the can of Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain nearby so we can collect the batch number. We hope you will give us a chance to try to make things right with you.
                  - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10 Rustoleum
                    1 found this review helpful
                    Works like a charm! Kona was the color we chose and it looks great!
                    by
                    • Verified Purchase
                    Amazing!
                    I bought this about a month ago to redo my bright red cabinets into a dark brown color it looks amazing and the can is still not empty!! I absolutely love this color
                    by
                      • Recommended
                      2 found this review helpful
                      I had much trial and error trying to find a stain that would cover my golden oak kitchen cabinets without turning red. Varathane's Kona Gel Stain finally gave me the warm brown kitchen I've been dreaming of. I wasn't too keen on using a gel stain but I found this brand, above some other popular brands I tried, to be extremely easy to work with, giving me plenty of time to wipe, and leaving a deep, rich color behind. I didn't even need a second coat. I'm very impressed with Varathane Gel stain!
                      by
                      • Verified Purchase
                      1 found this review helpful
                      Went on easy and was perfect.
                      by
                      • Verified Purchase
                      Showing 1-10 of 1,038 reviews

                      Compare Key Features

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                      Product Snapshot

                      Ideal for interior wood staining projects, this gel stain enhances natural grain while offering easy application and a durable finish.
                      Ideal for enhancing the natural grain of interior wood, this stain offers deep penetration and long-lasting protection. A great choice for DIYers seeking a classic, natural wood finish.
                      Ideal for homeowners looking for classic, natural wood stain, making their furniture and cabinets look new. Its semi-transparent formula enhances wood grain with long-lasting protection.
                      Great for homeowners looking to enhance the natural grain of their interior wood surfaces, making their furniture, cabinets, doors, and trim look their best.

                      Coverage Area

                      200 sq ft
                      600 sq ft
                      600 sq ft
                      600 sq ft

                      Drying Time

                      120 min
                      4 hours
                      4 hours
                      4 hours

                      VOC Content

                      UV Protection

                      Water Resistance