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Internet # 308461494

Model # 349701

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

$26.77
/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. Kona 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
  • California residents
     see Prop 65 WARNINGS

Product Information

Internet # 308461494

Model # 349701

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

Kona

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

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|May 5, 2026


        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


          Will this cover interior door that are primed
          ByMay 1, 2026
          1 Answer | 
          Answer This Question

          Sharon, happy to help! Yes, Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain will cover over a primed surface. You will want to lightly sand the surface to ensure the best adhesion results. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10

          By|May 4, 2026


            I have a cabinet that was painted over a few years ago, but wanted to remove the paint and restain it! Would this product be a good choice for this project! Thanks!
            ByApr 6, 2026
            1 Answer | 
            Answer This Question

            Great question, Vanessa. Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain is a great choice for staining bare or previously coated vertical surfaces. When applying to a coated surface we recommend using an extra fine bristle brush or foam brush to minimize brush marks. Be sure to apply light coats in the direction of the wood grain. -Rust-Oleum Product Support 14

            By|Apr 6, 2026


              after applying the gel stain, how long to wait before wiping it off?
              ByMar 25, 2026
              1 Answer | 
              Answer This Question

              Great question, Mack! If applying Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain to bare or unfinished wood, we recommend waiting 2-5 minutes before wiping the excess off. If applying to finished wood or a non-wood surface, excess is not wiped off but thin coats must be applied. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

              By|Apr 6, 2026

                (1)

                Can this applied over paint to add depth and effect?
                ByFeb 12, 2026
                1 Answer | 
                Answer This Question

                Matt, this is a fantastic question! Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain can be applied over painted surfaces, it is intended to be applied with a thin, full coat. If looking for a more decorative glaze, you may consider Rust-Oleum Transformations Decorative Glaze. https://www.homedepot.com/p/Rust-Oleum-Transformations-1-qt-Java-Brown-Cabinet-Decorative-Glaze-266227/203265738 - Rust-Oleum Product Support 10

                By|Feb 13, 2026


                  Viewing 1-8 of 215

                  Customer Reviews

                  4.2 out of 5

                  • 4.2 out of 1,011 reviews
                  • 70% recommend this product
                  Filter by:
                  Showing 1-10 of 1,011 reviews
                  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
                      Used this stain to match existing wood on our riverhouse as we have been rehabbing after the hurricanes. Great match for us and easy to use.
                      by
                      • Verified Purchase
                      Varathane gel stain is pretty good. I prefer Old Masters usually, but they have a limited color range compared to Varathane. Varathane gel is also a little bit runnier than OM so you get a little bit more penetration of color but it doesn’t cling as well for vertical or overhead surfaces. I like gel because getting uniform color is never an issue like it can be with penetrating or wiping stains; although for certain types of wood or any wood sanded up past 400 grit, gel won’t give you as much depth of color as a penetrating liquid stain can when left to sit on the surface. I used briarsmoke while doing a batch of color samples for a customer and although we didn’t choose it, it was in the top 3.
                      by
                      2 found this review helpful
                      Showing 1-10 of 1,011 reviews

                      Compare Key Features

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                      Product Snapshot

                      Ideal for homeowners looking for a natural wood finish, making staining doors, trim, and furniture easier. This gel stain provides excellent control and a smooth, drip-free application.
                      Ideal for DIYers and professionals, this gel stain enhances wood grain on various surfaces, offering easy application and a natural finish.
                      Great for homeowners looking for a natural wood finish, making staining doors, molding, and trim easier and more efficient.
                      Great for homeowners looking for a natural wood finish, making staining doors, trim, and furniture easier and more efficient.

                      Coverage Area

                      200 sq ft
                      200 sq ft
                      200 sq ft
                      200 sq ft

                      Drying Time

                      120 min
                      120 min
                      120 min

                      VOC Content

                      UV Protection

                      Water Resistance