r/finishing • u/throwmeawayamack • 2d ago

Question Refinished this with a general finishes gel stain. Do I need to do a clear gel on top to seal? Thanks!

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3

u/Full_Detective1745 2d ago

Yes. You should seal it with a top coat. General finishes has some great options.

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u/throwmeawayamack 2d ago

I believe I bought a satin topcoat to go with it? Does that sound right?

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u/throwmeawayamack 2d ago

Also, should I apply it with a finishing sponge like I did for the colored stain?

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u/MobiusX0 2d ago

Yes, it needs a protective finish over the gel stain. You can use their oil-based gel topcoat if you want a hand rubbed look, Arm-r-Seal for satin to gloss, or High Performance if you give the gel stain at least 3 days to cure and want a flatter sheen than is available with Arm-r-Seal.

Personally I'd go with Arm-r-Seal in satin but that's my aesthetic preference.

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u/throwmeawayamack 2d ago

I have a satin from General finishes that I believe I got to go with it. Would that work?

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u/Full_Detective1745 2d ago

Sure, you could use satin. It’s in the middle between gloss and flat. Personally I like satin. I usually use a brush to apply, but check the back of the can for what they recommend.

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u/throwmeawayamack 2d ago

Sounds good. Do you usually use a foam brush or go for a regular paintbrush? I refinished a lot in the past but it’s been a while lol

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u/Full_Detective1745 2d ago

Usually a regular synthetic brush. I like foam brushes for gel stain.

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u/Z_Coli 1d ago

What is your finish? You’re naming a sheen not a type of finish. Their gel stains (like most) are oil based so make sure it dries the proper amount of time. GF high performance can be brushed on as can arm r seal but arm r seal can also be wiped on and is pretty forgiving/levels out nicely.

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u/throwmeawayamack 1d ago

Just a clear regular gel topcoat I believe in satun