DESCRIPTION AND USES
Varathane Total Control Gel Stain is a fast-drying, water based stain that provides rich, even color. This easy-to-use formula is ideal for vertical surfaces such as doors, trim and banisters and can be applied to a variety of surfaces such as wood, metal, fiberglass and more. Varathane Total Control Stain has a thick consistency that will not drip or run. This low-odor formula cleans up easily with soap and water and can be used on both interior and exterior projects.
This product is ideal for interior surfaces such as furniture, doors, and veneer. It can also be used on exterior surfaces such as outdoor furniture and doors (protect using Varathane Spar Urethane). It is not recommended for use on floors, decks, or siding.
PRODUCT FEATURES & BENEFITS
• No drips
• Ideal for wood, metal, fiberglass and more
• Low odor
• Soap & water cleanup
• Great for vertical surfaces
• Rich even color
PRODUCT APPLICATION
SURFACE PREPARATION
WOOD SURFACES - On wood surfaces, remove any existing coatings using sandpaper or a stripper. Prepare bare wood for staining by sanding in the direction of the grain. Begin with #120 grit sandpaper and progress through #150, #180 and #220 grits. Remove all sanding dust with a vacuum or clean rag dampened with mineral spirits. Pretreat surface with Varathane Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner, following label instructions, to ensure uniform color and grain raise control.
NON-WOOD SURFACES – When applying Varathane Total Control Gel Stain to non-wood surfaces, thoroughly clean the surface and remove all dust, dirt, grease, and glue. Make sure surface is thoroughly clean and dry before proceeding. This product works best on factory-coated fiberglass and metal doors. Test for compatibility prior to full application of product. This stain is not a substitute for a corrosion-resistant coating. It will not protect metal from corrosion. Do not apply directly over ferrous containing metals.
TESTING COLOR - Be sure to test your stain to verify the desired color. To test, apply stain in an inconspicuous area. Be sure to sand and condition the test area first.
APPLICATION
Bare or Unfinished Wood - Use adequate ventilation at all times. Stir thoroughly before use. Apply when temperatures are between 50-90°F (10-38°C) and the relative humidity less than 85%. Apply Varathane Total Control Gel Stain liberally to the surface going in the direction of the wood grain with a synthetic bristle or foam brush. Let stand for 1-2 minutes and wipe off excess with a clean, lint-free cloth, using light and even pressure. Remove excess stain in the direction of the wood grain. If grain raise occurs, lightly sand with 220 grit sandpaper between coats.
Finished Wood/Wood with Existing Top Coat - Use adequate ventilation at all times. Stir thoroughly before use. Apply when temperatures are between 50-90°F (10-38°C) and the relative humidity less than 85%. Lightly sand previous finish with 220 grit sandpaper to improve adhesion. Remove all sanding dust and thoroughly clean the surface before application. Apply Varathane Total Control Gel Stain to the surface using an extra fine bristle brush or foam brush to minimize brush marks. Apply stain in a thin, smooth coat in the direction of the wood grain. Let dry.
Non-Wood Surfaces - Use adequate ventilation at all times. Stir thoroughly before use. Apply when temperatures are between 50-90°F (10-38°C) and the relative humidity less than 85%. Apply Varathane Total Control Gel Stain to the surface using an extra fine bristle brush or foam brush to minimize brush marks. Apply a thin, smooth coat. Let dry.
DRY TIME
Allow stain to dry a minimum of 1 hour. If a deeper color is desired, apply an additional coat. Allow at least 1 hour between coats.
When topcoating wood: Wait at least 2 hours before applying water-based topcoats; wait at least 6 hours before applying oil-based topcoats.
When topcoating non-wood substrates: Wait at least 24 hours before applying any topcoat.
Dry times may be affected by temperature, humidity, and ventilation.
PROTECTING YOUR PROJECT
Use Varathane Polyurethane (Interior) or Spar Urethane (Exterior) topcoat to protect your projects. Refer to topcoat label for application and dry time guidelines.
CLEANUP
Clean up tools and equipment with soap and water.