Customer Reviews for Varathane 1 qt. Mahogany Wood Interior Gel Stain

We appreciate your feedback! To allow the natural wood grain to show through, Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain is not considered an opaque coating. We do appreciate your feedback about the labeling and will be sure to pass it along to our internal teams.
- Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

Let's see what we can figure out. When applying Varathane Gel Stain to bare wood, prepare the wood by sanding, beginning with #120 grit sandpaper and progress through #150, #180 and #220 grits. Apply the Gel Stain liberally to the surface using a brush or lint-free cloth. First apply stain going against the grain to fill in pores. Then work with the grain to even out color. Let stand for 2-5 minutes and wipe off excess with a clean soft cloth, using light and even pressure (all the excess must be removed). Remove excess stain in the direction of the wood grain. Allow stain to dry a minimum of 4 hours before top coating with an oil-based finish, and at least 24 hours before top coating with a water based finish. Dry times may be affected by temperature, humidity and ventilation. The stain must be dry before top coating. Give us a call at 800-901-0411, so we can hear more about your application and try to make things right.
- Rust-Oleum Product Support 6

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your experience with Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain. If the store is unable to assist you, please give us a call at 800-901-0411 to talk with us.
- Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

This is not what we expect to hear, Jack! To ensure proper drying, it is essential that Rust-Oleum Varathane Gel Stain is applied only when temperatures are between 50-90°F to ensure proper drying. A heavier coat will also slow the dry time. When applying to bare wood, excess stain also needs to be wiped away.
- Rust-Oleum Product Support 3

That is not what we like to hear, Karen! Our Varathane Gel Stain is designed to dry completely on metal and fiberglass surfaces, and over wood when the excess stain is removed by wiping with a rag. You can clean up any spilled stain or tools with mineral spirits while the stain remains wet. - Rust-Oleum Product Support 2

We need to know more to get to the bottom of this. When using Varathane Premium Gel Stain on bare or unfinished wood, apply liberally to the surface using a brush or lint-free cloth. First apply stain going against the grain to fill in pores. Then work with the grain to even out color. Let stand for 2-5 minutes and wipe off excess with a clean soft cloth, using light and even pressure. Remove excess stain in the direction of the wood grain. The excess stain must be removed. Give us a call at 800-901-0411, so we can hear more about your application and try to make things right.
- Rust-Oleum Product Support 6