Water-Based Wood Stain

General Finishes Water Based Stains have superior qualities over oil-based stains. Their high-quality pigments produce rich, dark, uniform colors on hard-to-stain woods like maple and pine. Water-Based Wood Stain is PFAS-free, and as General Finishes strives for a cleaner and healthier environment, all future product development will be free of “Forever Chemicals." Low odor, low VOC, water cleanup, and noncombustible. Looking for a "green" environment-friendly finish? These stains are formulated with more than 50% RENEWABLE RESOURCES formulated from sustainable materials that decrease the carbon footprint. Brush or spray. See our spray tip size recommendations here. Need inspiration? Visit the General Finishes Design Center OR Pinterest Board.  
4 Reasons to Switch to Water-Based Finishes

Instructions

Step 2: Preparation

All wood projects require preparation sanding. If you skip this critical step, your finish may fail.

Raw Wood

See our video: How To Prep Sand New Wood

  1. Sand with 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 150 or 220-grit.
  2. Remove dust.
Sealed Surface

See our video: How to Prepare Existing Finishes

  1. Scuff clean with a non-woven abrasive pad & 50:50 mix of denatured alcohol & water.
  2. Dry 1-2 hours.
  3. Sand lightly with 220-320-grit sanding sponge.
  4. Remove dust.

 

 

Step 2: How To Apply General Finishes Water-Based Wood Stain

Join General Finishes University Facebook Group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/generalfinishesuniversity for customer support and learning opportunities for GF products. This group is a great resource for guidance regarding choosing the right product, mastering finishing techniques, troubleshooting, or sharing your finished projects.

Download 2024 Water Based Stain Brochure Here

General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain Application Steps 

  1. Watch product overview video here.
  2. Watch the application video here.
  3. Work in a well-ventilated area.
  4. Stir stain to reincorporate solids that have settled to the bottom of the can before and throughout the application process.
  5. Thin as desired with distilled water; start with 5%, adding up to 10% by volume. 
  6. Increase open time, if needed, with up to 5% General Finishes Extender if allowed by local regulations. GF Extender will improve flow and leveling and increase open time, which is helpful in dry climates. California Residents: Adding more than 2% of GF Extender will make the products non-compliant per SCAQMD Regulations. GF assumes no liability for the improper use of these products.    
  7. An initial coat of General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural can improve color uniformity over difficult-to-stain wood species such as pine. However, it will limit color absorption, so a darker stain may be required to get the depth of color you want. NOTES on softwoods such as Pine, Pawlonia, or Poplar, the use of Pre-Stain Conditioner will reduce blotchiness but not remove it entirely.
  8. Test your complete finishing process beforehand. Stain color can be affected by variances in wood, room lighting, and deepened with the application of topcoat.  
  9. Surface preparation is essential. See "Step 1: Preparation for Water Based Wood Stain."
  10. Divide your project into manageable sections: top, side, drawer, door, table seam.


8. Apply product: 

Hand-Application over Raw Wood:

  • Apply a LIBERAL amount of stain to ensure easy workability using a synthetic bristle brush, foam brush, pad applicator or microfiber roller. Work quickly. For large surfaces use a larger applicator such as the pad applicator.
    If not enough stain is used, the surface may dry too quickly, causing an uneven appearance.
    On large projects, leave a wet edge between sections to prevent lap lines until you can wipe all the excess off.
  • Stain one complete section at a time.
  • Wipe off the excess evenly with the grain using absorbant terry cloth or an absorbent paper towel. Check for missed spots and lap marks before moving to the next section. Do NOT use cotton t-shirts to wipe away stain because they will "push" the stain around and not absorb it.
  • Pull excess stain out of corners and details with a synthetic bristle brush.
  • Immediately correct lap marks by rewetting the entire working area with stain and wiping off the excess.
  • One coat is recommended. If needed, another coat will make the color darker but do not exceed two coats as that will create too much build of a low solids finish. Stains are designed to provide color but are not durable on their own.
  • Let the stain dry 2+ hours in ideal conditions when using a WATER-BASED topcoat: 50% humidity, 70°F/20°C before adding a second coat (optional) and before adding topcoat. Be sure to allow adequate dry time. If in doubt, wait longer. When using with an OIL-BASED topcoat, allow 24 hours dry time.
    Increase dry time if: 
    • Humidity is over 80%
    • More than 2 coats are applied (not recommended)
    • Thick coats are applied
    • increase to 24 hours if applying an oil-based topcoat over the water-based stain.
    • To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator before applying and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness. 

Spray Application over Raw Wood: 

  • Safety: Wear a full filter respirator (NIOSH/MSHA-approved) and work in a ventilated space.
  • Spray wet films at 3-5-mil thickness. HVLP: 1.1mm-1.3mm spray tip, medium air cap. Verify tip sizes with your equipment supplier. See our spray tip size recommendations here.
    Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large, flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6-8" wide.
    For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" wide to reduce overspray. 
    Overlap each pass 25-50% for even coverage. Read here for more information on spraying techniques.
  • Apply section by section. Spray liberally to a complete section and wipe off the excess evenly with the grain using a quality paper towel or shop towel. Check for missed spots and lap marks before moving to the next section. Do NOT use cotton t-shirts to wipe away stain because they will "push" the stain around and not absorb it.
  • Spray a LIBERAL amount of stain to ensure easy workability. If not enough stain is used, the surface may dry too quickly, causing an uneven appearance. On large projects, leave a wet edge between sections to prevent lap lines during application.
  • Pull excess stain out of corners and details with a bristle brush.
  • Immediately correct lap marks by rewetting the entire working area with stain and wiping off the excess.
  • Let the stain dry 2+ hours in ideal conditions: 50-70% humidity, 70°F/20°C before adding a second coat (optional) and before adding topcoat. Be sure to allow adequate dry time. If in doubt, wait longer. Increase dry time if: 
    • Humidity is over 80%
    • 3+ coats are applied (not recommended)
    • Thick coats are applied
    • To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator before applying and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness. 

Hand-Application over Existing Finish:
See our video: How to Update Existing Finishes with Water Based Wood Stain

  • Stir contents well.
  • Prepare surface well. See Existing Finish Prep instructions in "Step 1: Preparation for Water Based Wood Stain."
  • Apply stain with a foam brush or staining pad. Feather out uneven areas and pull excess stain from corners using a bristle brush. Discharge accumulated stain from the brush onto a dry paper towel as you work. We recommend using a dry brush technique over an existing finish as outlined in this video: How to Update Existing Finishes with Water Based Wood Stain., but even with this technique, do not apply more than 3 coats. Painting on the stain will create too much film build of a low solids finish. Stains are designed to provide color but if applied too heavily, create an unstable surface even when dry and topocated.
  • Let the stain dry 2+ hours before GF water-based topcoat in ideal conditions: 50-70% humidity, 70*F/20*C before applying a second coat (optional) and before applying topcoat. Be sure to allow adequate dry time. If in doubt, wait longer.
    Increase dry time if: 
    • Humidity is over 80%
    • More than 3 coats are applied (not recommended)
    • Thick coats are applied
    • Applying over products from other brands
    • Layering General Finishes water- and oil-based products:
      • Water over oil: Let oil-based products dry 72+hr before applying water-based products
      • Oil over water: Let water-based products dry 24+hr before applying oil-based products
    • To accelerate dry time in humid conditions, add General Finishes Accelerator before applying and work in a space with good ventilation and air movement. If you decide to re-coat before the recommended time, test dryness.
  1. Topcoat is required. Finish with 2-3 coats of General Finishes topcoat. Applying more coats will not improve the results. You can remove any grain raise after applying the first coat of topcoat. Watch this video for more information on grain raise. See "Step 3: Topcoat Over Water-Based Stain."

Step 3: Topcoat Over Water-Based Stain

Always seal General Finishes Water Based Wood StainGeneral Finishes Dye Stain and General Finishes Enduro Ready-To-Match (RTM) Water Based Wood Stain with 3 coats of topcoat. More coats will not improve durability.

Grain Raise

After the first coat of topcoat has dried, you can knock down grain raise by lightly sanding with a 220 sanding pad. Watch Grain Raise video here.

Recommended Water-Based Topcoats
General Finishes High Performance can be applied by hand or sprayed; General Finishes Enduro Clear Poly is spray-only. Both topcoats dry clear and are great for high-use surfaces, such as kitchen cabinets and tabletops. General Finishes Flat Out Flat is our flattest topcoat, suitable for projects that do not receive major wear.

Recommended Oil-Based Topcoats
When sealing with General Finishes oil-based topcoats, General Finishes Arm-R-Seal and General Finishes Gel Topcoat, let water-based stain dry a minimum of 24 hours first. Oil-based topcoats amber increasingly over time.

Creative Finishing Techniques Using Water-Based Wood Stain

Color Adjustments

  1. Add up to 50% Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural to Water Based Wood Stain to lighten the color.
  2. Apply a second coat to deepen the color but no more than 2 coats.
     

Wood Stain as a Glaze

MATERIALS NEEDED:

SAMPLE MIX:

Water Based Wood Stain + 10% High Performance Topcoat 

**mixture to be used at point of use only. Do not store. 


Aged/Varnish Glaze

MATERIALS NEEDED:

  • General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain: Your choice of color
  • General Finishes High Performance Topcoat

SAMPLE MIX:

Water Based Wood Stain  + High Performance Topcoat 50:50 ratio

**mixture to be used at point of use only. Do not store. 

Custom Colors

MATERIALS NEEDED:

  • General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain: Your choice of color
  • General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural

SAMPLE MIXES:

  • Create additional colors by mixing Water Based Wood Stains and Dye Stains.
  • Lighten Water Based Wood Stains by diluting with General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural


Toning

  • Water-Based Wood Stains Can be used for toning. Mix no more than 5%-10% stain to topcoat. Spraying lays down a more even coat, so slightly more stain can be used than when brushing. Toning mixture should be used at point of use only. Do not store for extended period of time. 

Cleanup of Water Based Products

Application tools and materials containing water-based products can be cleaned with soap and water or General Finishes Brush & Gun Cleaner immediately after use.

Product Spills

Spills may be able to be removed from fabric and carpet if cleaned immediately with soap and water.

Disposal

Discard unused product and waste in an environmentally safe manner; check with local fire and health regulation. 

Storage of Water Based Products

Life of Product

General Finishes products do not last forever, even when unopened. They are best used within 1 year. The life of the product may be extended with proper can closure and storage conditions. (see Storage Tips below).

Water-based products can last 3-5 years if the can is unopened, in good condition and stored in correct temperatures.

Product that is 3 years old will not look like product that is 6 months to 1 year old. You will see more stratification or separation as the product ages. Settling is natural. Always stir thoroughly before using.

Foul Smell

If your product has a foul smell, it is contaminated and no longer in useable condition.

Clumps & Settling

Gravity can cause some solids to settle on the bottom of the can and slight separation on the top. This is normal. If working with older product stir with a paint mixing attachment on a drill.

If the solids dissolve and clumps smooth out after mixing from the bottom, the product is in good condition for use.

Inability to reincorporate large, chunky lumps after stirring for several minutes is an indication that the product has frozen and can no longer be used.

Storage Tips

See video tutorial: Tips on Storing Leftover Finishes
Water-based finishes crystalize and form a skin due to evaporation when the air-tight seal on a can is broken at first use. The following best practices will increase the life of your product:

  1. Pry open sealed lids with a paint can opener by hooking under the lid's rolled edge. The use of a screwdriver can disfigure the rim and lid, impairing a complete seal. 
  2. Keep lid closed while working. Pour what you will use into a bowl, paper cup, or plate, and close can lid as you work.
  3. Clean the chime of the can thoroughly with a paper towel before closing to create a complete seal. Product falling into the chime can be minimized by using a pouring lid, such as Fitsall. Avoid wiping used brushes on the lid.
  4. Pound the lid in place using a rubber mallet to avoid distorting the chime or lid. Dents in the lid from direct contact with a hammer can impair a complete seal. Alternatively, place a flat piece of wood over can lid and firmly pound shut.
  5. Store in moderate temperatures. Avoid temperatures below 50°F/10°C or above 100°F/26°C. Keep from freezing. Frozen and heat-damaged product cannot be revitalized. Temperature-controlled spaces, such as a basement, are ideal for storage. Do not store product in an attic, garage, in direct sunlight, or next to something warm like a water heater or furnace.
  6. Store can upside down to create a liquid seal, minimize evaporation and reduce the chance of crystallization. Decant remaining product from the can before stirring. 
  7. Decant leftovers to a smaller container when the finish is almost used up. Alternative storage containers for water-based products are plastic FIFO bottles or glass bottles. Do not fill metal-lidded containers completely to prevent them from rusting.

The following water-based product mixtures can be stored:

  1. Product thinned with up to 15% General Finishes Extender or General Finishes Accelerator can be stored, with the exception of thinned General Finishes Water Based Wood Stain.
  2. Mixtures involving colors & sheens within the same product line, such as:
    • High Performance Satin + High Performance Gloss
    • Snow White Milk Paint + Coastal Blue Milk Paint
    • Amber Dye Stain + Merlot Dye Stain

The following product mixtures should NOT be stored:

  • Any water based product with thinned tap water; water often contains bacteria that will adversely affect stored paint.
  • Topcoat + Stain or Paint
  • Milk Paint + Chalk Style Paint
  • Water Based Wood Stain + Dye Stain

Warnings and Warranties

Water Based Wood Stain Warnings and Warranties


Compatibility 

Do not use water-based products with Linseed Oils or Danish Oils.


Limited Warranty
General Finishes products must be tested to your complete satisfaction before using. General Finishes will not be responsible for color satisfaction, misapplication, nor compatibility with other manufacturer's products. General Finishes will be responsible only for the cost of our products, and not for costs such as labor, damage or project replacement.


Contamination and Compatibility
Our finishes are engineered as a system and are compatible with each other. General Finishes cannot guarantee an ideal refinish when applying our products on top of or combined with another company's products or over surfaces that have been in contact with waxes, polishes or sprays containing contaminants such as silicone. Test for adherence and aesthetics before beginning.


FIRST AID: Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur due to the following. EYE CONTACT: Remove any contact lenses. Flush eyes with water for 20+ minutes while lifting upper and lower eyelids. SKIN CONTACT: Wash thoroughly after handling. INHALATION: Move to fresh air and loosen clothing. If not breathing, if breathing is irregular or if respiratory arrest occurs, provide artificial respiration or oxygen by trained personnel. INGESTION: Call physician immediately. Wash out mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting unless directed to do so by medical personnel. Never give anything by mouth to an unconscious person.



Prop 65 WARNING:

  • Antique Brown, Antique Oak, Black, Black Cherry, Brown Mahogany, Cabernet, Espresso, Hickory, Onyx, Pecan, Provincial, Sedona, Tobacco, Walnut:
    WARNING: This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including Hydrazine, 1,4-Dioxane, Propylene oxide, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
     
  • Graystone, Graphite, Whitewash: 
    WARNING: This product can expose you to Ethylene oxide, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. This product can expose you to chemicals including Hydrazine, 1,4-Dioxane, Propylene oxide, Titanium dioxide, which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, and Ethanediol, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov



WARNING:

  • Antique Brown, Antique Oak, Black, Black Cherry, Brown Mahogany, Cabernet, Espresso, Hickory, Onyx, Pecan, Provincial, Sedona, Tobacco, Walnut, Water Based Wood Stain Base:
    CAUTION: MAY CAUSE EYE IRRITATION. 
     
  • Graystone, Graphite: 
    WARNING: HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED. CAUSES EYE IRRITATION. 
     
  • Whitewash:
    WARNING CAUSES EYE & SKIN IRRITATION. 



WARNING:

  • Antique Brown, Cabernet, Hickory, Onyx, Provincial, Sedona, Tobacco:
    Keep out of the reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed and sealed until ready for use. Wash thoroughly after handling.
     
  • Antique Oak, Black, Black Cherry, Brown Mahogany, Espresso, Pecan, Walnut, Water Based Wood Stain Base:
    WARNING: Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.
     
  • Graystone, Graphite:
    Keep out of the reach of children. Do not swallow. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed and sealed until ready for use. Wash thoroughly after handling. 
     
  • Whitewash: 
    WARNING: Keep out of reach of children. Do not get on skin or clothing. Avoid contact with eyes. Keep container tightly closed when not in use. Wash thoroughly after handling.

Specifications

Basic Features
Product Colors Antique Brown, Antique Oak, Black, Black Cherry, Brown Mahogany, Cabernet, Espresso, Graystone, Graphite, Hickory, Natural, Onyx, Pecan, Provincial, Sedona, Tobacco, Walnut, Whitewash
Base Type Water
Interior or Exterior Interior only
Type Water Based Stain
Application
Coats 1+ coats
Application Method Brush, Roll, Spray, Pad
Brushable Yes
Usable over existing finishes Yes - see product page application instructions.
Sprayable Yes
Spray Tip Sizes HVLP 1.1mm-1.3mm
Topcoat Required Yes
Dry Time
Dry Time - Touch Raw Wood (30+ min.), Existing Finish (1+ hr)
Dry Time - Recoat 2+ hr
Dry Time - Recoat - Applied Over Oil Based Product 24
Contents
Can Sizes Pints, Quarts, Gallons
Coverage 50-75 sq.ft./pint, 100-150 sq.ft./quart, 400-600 sq.ft./gallon
Technical Data
Viscosity Medium
Weight Solids 22%
VOC US VOC
Antique Brown: <127.056 g/L
Antique Oak: <177.448 g/L
Black: <161.572 g/L
Black Cherry: <154.436 g/L
Brown Mahogany: <157.643 g/L
Cabernet: <144.126 g/L
Espresso: <155.348 g/L
Graystone: <152.765 g/L
Graphite: <134.816 g/L
Hickory: <167.845 g/L
Onyx: <149.456 g/L
Pecan: <156.163 g/L
Provincial: <166.079 g/L
Sedona: <163.466 g/L
Tobacco: <142.305 g/L
Walnut: <174.976 g/L
Whitewash: <135.153 g/L

Design Center

FAQs

*Can I Use Interior Wood Stains Outdoors If I Coat With an Exterior Topcoat?

Interior wood stains are formulated for interior use and do not contain UV absorbers, mold retardants or HALS (Hindered amine light stabilizers used to protect the polymers from the effects of photo-oxidation.) Waterbased interior stains are much more likely to fail.

You could try this look on an exterior door that will not receive a lot of sun, but be prepared for more maintenance than usual. It is not recommended.

Everyone should note that all exterior finishes need to be maintained at some point - MOTHER NATURE wins the longevity war

Watch Exterior 450 Topcoat product overview video

Watch Exterior 450 Stain product overview video

Related Categories


*How Do I Prevent Bleed Through When Applying Whitewash Over Espresso Water Based Wood Stain?

Water Based Stains will always exhibit a bit of bleed through. When glazing with any color over water stains, we recommend some type of seal coat is applied first.

Unfortunately, the two colors you have chosen do not work very well together. Expresso will always bleed if Whitewash is applied directly over top. In the future, seal the Espresso stain with a coat of Shellac, and then General Finishes High Performance Topcoat. Allow both to dry, then apply Whitewash as a glaze (1 part stain, 1 part topcoat mix).

Here are two remedies we recommend to fix for bleeding that has occurred:

  1. Strip away finish and start over. 
    Stain with Espresso, top with Shellac, and then with 1-2 coats High Performance. After the HIgh Performance has dried, apply the Whitewash as a glaze (1:1 stain & HPTC). Seal with High Performance.
  2. Paint over the bleeding stain. 
    Seal current finish with Shellac and then paint with Seagull Gray Milk Paint.

Any time you apply a light stain over a dark stain there is a possibility of bleed through. Therefore, it's important to seal off the base color first. 
If the look of the wood grain is not important, Dark Chocolate Milk Paint is an exact match to Java Gel Stain when painted, and it could be used as an alternative base color.

Related Categories


*How Do I Spray Water Based Finishes?

Spray Tip Guidelines from General Finishes
Click the image to download a PDF of this chart

General Finishes water-based products can be sprayed through compressed air, HVLP, airless or C.A.S. units.

DOWNLOAD SPRAY TIP CHART PDF 

SURFACE PREPARATION:

All surfaces should be clean and free from dirt and oil and sanded.

Indicated below are instructional videos we have for preparing a surface for a new coat of paint or finish:

SPRAY APPLICATION OF GENERAL FINISHES WATER-BASED FINISHES:

All General Finishes water-based topcoats and wood stains are ready to spray from the container without additives with the exception of Conversion Varnish. Always strain material through a medium to fine mesh filter before spraying. If necessary, in hot or dry climates, reduce 10 to 15% with General Finishes Extender to extend the open time.

PRE SEALING:

Softwoods such as Pine absorb stain at an uneven rate and may respond better to staining if the wood is pre-sealed. General Finishes Pre-Stain Conditioner Natural can be applied to raw wood to condition the surface for uniform penetration of the stain. Pre-sealing will cause the final stain to be lighter so you may need to use a darker color. Always test your color on a hidden part of the furniture. Allow the Pre-Stain Conditioner to dry 30 minutes before applying your final stain color.

If you are using a sprayer that has been used for oil-based or lacquers, clean the unit thoroughly with acetone followed with hot water to purge the fluid passage. Apply a thin coat first that will dry and harden faster. Sand this first coat down to a smooth base on which to build your finish coats with a 220-320 grade foam sanding pad or #400-grit sandpaper. It is better to spray 2 thin coats rather than 1 heavy coat.

Contact your supplier to verify proper tip sizes for your specific equipment. GF's general recommended fluid tips for Wood Stains and Top Coats are Compressed air - .040 and Airless - .009.

DOWNLOAD SPRAY TIP CHART PDF

This PDF lists general guidelines for several different types of sprayers with specific General Finishes product recommendations for HVLP listed below.

RECOMMENDED TIPS FOR GENERAL FINISHES PRODUCTS USING HVLP:

  • Milk Paint: 1.8mm-2.0mm
  • Brushable White Enamel 1.8mm-2.0mm
  • Stain Blocker: 1.8mm-2.0mm
  • Pearl Effects: 1.8mm-2.0mm
  • Glaze Effects: 1.8mm-2.0mm
  • High-Performance Topcoat: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Flat Out Flat Top Coat: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Enduro-Var 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Water-Based Wood Stain: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Water-Based Dye Stain: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Exterior 450 Topcoat:1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Exterior 450 Stain: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Enduro Sanding Sealer: 1.3-1.4mm
  • Enduro White Poly: 1.3mm-1.5mm
  • Enduro Black Poly: 1.3mm-1.5mm
  • Enduro White Under Coat 1.5mm-1.8mm
  • Enduro Clear Poly: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Enduro Pre Cat Lacquer: 1.1mm-1.3mm
  • Enduro Conversion Varnish: 1.1mm-1.3mm

Air caps should be medium size. Contact your supplier to verify proper tip sizes for your specific equipment.

Break your work into sections such as dresser top or drawer fronts. Spraying too large of an area can result in a textured grainy surface. A correctly sprayed finish should appear even and glossy. It is important to spray enough material to allow proper flow and leveling of the finish.

Spray medium wet films at 3-5 wet ml thickness. Practice makes perfect. If you have never sprayed finishes before, take a large piece of cardboard and practice your technique first. Spray water on the cardboard to learn how the gun works. Check your fluid settings and adjust the controls to get comfortable with the spray angles and to develop your technique.

SPRAYING TOPCOATS:

Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6 to 8 wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. For topcoats, overlap each pass 25% to conceal lines.

Watch our video how to spray water-based topcoats here.

SPRAYING WATER BASED WOOD STAINS:

Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6 to 8 wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. Overlap each pass of stain 50% for even coverage and wipe back the excess with an absorbent cloth. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray.

SPRAYING WATER BASED DYE STAINS:

Keep your gun at a 90* angle, 6-8" from the surface. On large flat areas, use wet, even patterns 6 to 8 wide. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray. Overlap each pass of stain 50% for even coverage. If coverage is even, there is no need to wipe. If you have issues with uneven coverage, wipe back the excess with an absorbent cloth. For narrow surfaces, reduce the fan pattern to 2-3" to reduce overspray.

Related Categories


Can I apply General Finishes Water Based stain on green white oak timbers?

No, you cannot. The stain will not absorb due to the high moisture content of green wood and not accept the stain.

Related Categories


Can I thin General Finishes Water Based Stains?

Thin GF water based stains with distilled water if desired. Start with 5%, adding up to 10% by volume. 
Increase open time, if needed with up to 5% General Finishes Extender if allowed by local regulations. GF Extender will improve flow and leveling and increase open time, which is helpful in dry climates. 
California Residents: Adding more than 2% of GF Extender will make the products non compliant per SCAQMD Regulations. GF assumes no liability for the improper use of these products.

GF Enduro RTM stains are a thinner formula designed for professional spray applications.

Related Categories


What are the renewable resources in General Finishes products?

General Finishes Renewable Resources Icon - Water Based Finishes

Renewable resources are a recent, eco-friendly advancement in the paint and coatings industry.

They are comprised of plant proteins such as corn; as well as conventional and innovative oils derived from plants such as Euphorbia lagascae, Vernonia galamensis from the sunflower family, and Calendula officinalis, aka marigold.

General Finishes products formulated with renewable resources meet the standard of excellence you have come to expect — including adhesion, coverage, color and durability — with all benefits of water finishes.

GF coatings made with Renewable Resources are: Enduro-Var II, Milk Paint, Water Based Wood Stain, Exterior 450 Stain and Wood Turner's Finish. Look for the green icon!

Related Categories


What Finishes & Coatings does General Finishes Offer for Retailers, Homeowners and DIY??

General Finishes offers water, oil, and maintenance finishes that meet the needs of homeowners, woodworkers, and DIY’ers. Comprehensive videos are available for each product on YouTube, plus dynamic comparison charts at GeneralFinishes.com/COMPARE.

All General Finishes water-based finishes are:

  • VOC compliant in all 50 states
  • Water cleanup 
  • Low odor
  • Non-flammable
INTERIOR PRIMERS

Water Based Stain Blocker is:

  • An epoxy acrylic formulation.
  • Prevents tannin bleed-through & discoloration.
  • Has high build with excellent adhesion properties.
  • Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.
WATER-BASED TOPCOATS & PIGMENTED FINISHES

High Performance Water-Based Topcoat is:

  • An Interior polyurethane/acrylic blend.
  • Clear drying.
  • highly resistant to water and household chemicals.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Flat Out Flat Water-Based Topcoat is:

  • An interior acrylic formulation.
  • Clear drying.
  • provides an extremely flat finish with high durability.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Enduro-Var II Water-Based Topcoat is:

  • An interior oil-modified water-based urethane.
  • Dries to a light, amber tone.
  • Made with over 50% renewable resources.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Milk Paint is:

  • A premium interior and exterior-rated acrylic formulation.
  • Self-sealing and does not require topcoat.
  • Is made with over 50% renewable resources.
  • Is available in 12 popular colors, plus two tint bases.
  • Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Water-Based Glaze Effects is:

  • An interior oxidating acrylic formula.
  • Available in 6 colors, including a Clear Base.
  • Is a decorative specialty finish.
  • Can be intermixed to create custom colors.
  • It requires a topcoat
  • Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer

Pro Image Water-Based Flooring Topcoat is:

  • An interior polyurethane.
  • Clear drying.
  • Levels to a smooth, hard, durable finish.
  • Provides excellent slip and black heel mark resistance.
  • Apply with a brush, roller, or pad applicator.
INTERIOR WATER-BASED STAINS

Water-Based Wood Stain is:

  • Made with over 50% renewable resources.
  • It’s available in 18 deep brilliant colors.
  • And provides universal coverage on many wood species.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Pre-Stain Conditioner is:

  • Used to control blotching on hard-to-stain woods.
  • And to reduce Water Based Wood Stains.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Dye Stain is:

  • A penetrating stain with ink-like consistency.
  • It is available in 14 vibrant colors.
  • And can be used as a toner.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer or wiping on.

Water-Based Dye Stain Reducer is:

  • The clear base used to reduce Dye Stain colors.
WATER & OIL EXTERIOR FINISHES

Exterior 450 Clear Water-Based Topcoat is:

  • A polyurethane formulation.
  • Tintable to dark colors.
  • Contains UV absorbers & Mildewcides to protect the finish.
  • Clear drying.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

 450 White Water-Based Topcoat is: 

  • A pigmented polyurethane formulation.
  • Is tintable to light and pastel colors.
  • Contains UV absorbers & mildewcides to protect the finish.
  • Apply with a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Exterior 450 Water-Based Stain is:

  • Made with over 50% renewable resources.
  • Available in 10 colors, including a clear base.
  • Contains U.V. absorbers & mildewcides to protect the finish.
  • Apply with a brush or sprayer.

Water-Based Milk Paint is:

  • A premium Interior and exterior-rated acrylic formulation.
  • Self-sealing and does not require topcoat.
  • Made with over 50% renewable resources.
  • Available in 12 popular colors, plus two tint bases.
  • Apply with a brush, roller or sprayer.

Outdoor Oil is:

  • A penetrating oil wood preservative.
  • Contains UV absorbers and mildewcides to protect the finish.
  • This finish will amber as it ages.
  • A maintenance product. Reapply when wear becomes evident.
  • Apply with a brush, roller or sprayer.
INTERIOR OIL STAINS & AMBERING TOPCOATS

Gel Satin Oil-Based Topcoat is:

  • A heavy-bodied, no-drip oil and urethane formula.
  • Designed to provide a hand-rubbed look.
  • Will amber as it ages.
  • Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Gel Oil-Based Stain is:

  • A heavy-bodied, no-drip formula.
  • Available in 14 deep, rich, uniform colors.
  • Apply with a brush, roller, or wipe on.

 Arm-R-Seal Oil-Based Topcoat is:

  • A penetrating sealer with a high-quality urethane formulation.
  • It provides long-lasting, durable protection.
  • and works beautifully on projects with detail.
  • This finish will amber as it ages
  • Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Liquid Oil-Based Wood Stain is:

  • a traditional, pigmented liquid wiping stain
  • Available in 14 colors
  • Can be used as a toner with Arm-R-Seal
  • Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Oil-Based Pre-Stain Conditioner is:

  • Designed to control blotching on hard-to-stain woods.
  • And penetrates the grain to promote uniform acceptance of oil stains.
  • Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Oil-Based Seal-A-Cell Clear is:

  • Formulated with a blend of oils, urethanes, and wax.
  • Is GF’s deepest penetrating close-to-the-wood sealer.
  • And the best choice for highlighting figured wood.
  • Apply with a brush or wipe on.

Hard Wax Oil is:

  • A urethane-solids polymer in a blend of oil & wax.
  • Enhances the natural look of wood.
  • One of our easiest finishes to use.
  • It’s best used with optional GF Hardener to shorten dry time and provide superior durability.
  • This is a maintenance product. Reapply when wear becomes evident.
  • Apply with a white pad or plastic spreader.

 Oil Based Wood Bowl Finish is:

  • A pure urethane formulation.
  • Highlights figured wood beautifully
  • Apply with a brush or wipe on.
INTERIOR MAINTENANCE PRODUCTS

Butcher Block Oil is:

  • A mineral oil formulation.
  • Meets all requirements for use on wooden surfaces that come in contact with food.
  • This is a maintenance product. Reapply when wear becomes evident.
  • Apply with a cloth.

Orange Oil is:

  • A routine cleaner for cured wood finishes
  • Non-combustible with a fresh orange scent
  • Apply with a cloth

Satin Finishing Wax is:

  • A blend of waxes.
  • Produces a soft sheen and feel over any wood finish.
  • Can be used as a polish for rubbing out new finishes OR as a scratch-remover.
  • Apply with a cloth.

No matter what your project is, General Finishes has the right product for you. General Finishes is dedicated to using the highest-quality ingredients in all our products, while testing and advancing our water-based finishes with leading-edge technology.

Learn more about GF’s products at Generalfinishes.com. 

General Finishes: We make tomorrow's finishes today.

 

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Why can't I get a dark stain color on Maple wood using water based wood stain over pre-stain conditioner?

Maple is one of the most difficult woods to achieve a dark, uniform stain color on because it is a dense, closed grain wood and often absorbs stain very unevenly. General Finishes Gel Stains or Water Based Stains usually will perform very well because they are more topical than traditional liquid oil stains, and contain more colorants. 

We do not recommend pre-sealing Maple with a conditioner because it closes up the grain of the wood even more, further preventing color adherence. In the future, just use our water-based stains or gel stains on their own. Do not use liquid oil-based stains on Maple because they will blotch.

Also, prep sand Maple with 120 grit, followed by 150 grit or 220 grit. 

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