Specification
TECHNICAL DATA VAR-43
VARATHANE
®
GEL STAIN
Form: GDH-753
Rev.: 031315
1
.DESCRIPTION AND USES .
Varathane
®
Gel Stain is a convenient and easy to use
stain. It is ideal for vertical surfaces such as doors and
window trim. Varathane Gel Stain will not drip or run and
causes no lap marks or grain raise.
Varathane Gel Stain can be used on 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 Varnish). Gel Stains can
also be used o fiberglass and composite doors to create
the natural look of wood. Not recommended for floors,
decks or siding.
FEATURES .
Ideal for vertical surfaces
Rich deep color
No drips or runs
.
PRODUCTS .
SKU Description
266334 1-Quart Cabernet
266335 1-Quart Early American
266336 1-Quart Traditional Cherry
266337 1-Quart Paprika
266338 1-Quart Dark Walnut
266339 1-Quart Golden Oak
.PRODUCT APPLICATION .
SURFACE PREPARATION
Proper surface preparation is important. Please follow
instructions thoroughly.
Wood Surfaces: Surfaces must be clean, dry and sound.
On wood surfaces, remove any existing finishes with
sandpaper or 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. Before using product, remove all sanding dust with
a vacuum or a clean rag dampened with mineral
spirits.
Non-Wood Surfaces: When applying Varathane Gel
Stains to plastic, fiberglass or composite surfaces, begin
by removing all dust, dirt, grease or glue with a clean rag
dampened with mineral spirits. Make sure the surface is
thoroughly clean and dry before proceeding.
.PRODUCT APPLICATION .
SURFACE PREPARATION (cont.)
WARNING! If you scrape, sand or remove old paint, you
may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO
LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS SUCH AS
BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN.
PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD ALSO AVOID
EXPOSURE. Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator to
control lead exposure. Clean up carefully with a HEPA
vacuum and a wet mop. Before you start, find out how to
protect yourself and your family by contacting the National
Lead Information Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD or log on to
www.epa.gov/lead.
TESTING COLOR
Be sure to test the stain to verify the desired color. To test,
apply the stain in an inconspicuous area.
APPLICATION
Use with adequate ventilation at all times. Stir the contents
thoroughly before use. Use when temperatures are
between 50-90°F (10-32°C) and humidity is less than 85%.
Apply Varathane Gel Stain liberally to the surface using a
brush or a lint-free cloth. First apply the stain going against
the grain to fill in pores, and then wipe the grain to even
out the color. Let stand for 2-5 minutes and wipe off
excess with a clean soft cloth, using light and even
pressure in the direction of the wood grain.
COVERAGE
Each quart will cover approximately 200-250 square feet.
Coverage may vary depending on the applicator and the
porosity of the wood.
DRY TIME
Dry times are based on 70°F and 50% relative humidity.
Allow the stain to dry a minimum of 2 hours and then re-
coat if additional color is desired. Allow a minimum 2 hour
dry time between each coat of Gel Stain. Varathane Gel
Stains must be topcoated for protection. Allow the stain to
dry a minimum of 8 hours before topcoating. Dry time may
be affected by temperature, humidity and ventilation.
PROTECTING YOUR PROJECT
Use Varathane (Interior) or Spar Varnish (Exterior) to
protect your project. Allow Varathane Premium Gel Stains
to dry a minimum of 8 hours before applying an oil-based
finish and 24 hours before applying a water-based finish.
CLEAN-UP
Clean application tools and equipment with mineral spirits
or paint thinner.


