The Best Stain For Pine // How to Avoid a Blotchy, Uneven Finish

Staining pine doesn't have to be such a pain. I tested popular oil-based stains, water-based stains, and gel stains to see which is actually the best stain for pine - and it's probably not what you'd think. Plus I’m sharing how several popular stain colors really look on pine.

Stains tested with links:

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[headmeister]

One of the best, most thorough, no nonsense, well-informed videos I've seen on staining pine! You have helped me beyond measure! Thank you so much!

[carrienichols]

Without a doubt the most helpful no nonsense video about staining pine I have come across. Thank you for doing the hard work for me, now I can just get on with my project.

[chloekausal]

Have been scrolling online for hours trying to find samples of common gel stains on pine! Can move on with my project now, thank

[katiekohlbecker]

Super helpful!! And thanks for the extra gel stain samples!!

[hiddenvaly]

On soft woods (pine/spruce) I’ve found rather than a pre-stain conditioner, I use a wipe on urethane (GF ArmRseal ). Then a gel stain. Important note the urethane will reduce the intensity of the gel stain colour, so additional coats may be needed. The result is virtually blotch free.

[everythingantique]

Great video!! Thank you so much for the information I needed!!!

[pattiobrien]

General finishes sells an extender for their water based stains to extend the open time.

[mickspic]

Thanks for the video. You might enjoy a video by the Wood Whisperer on his channel on his homemade conditioner. He tested it on various stains on pine, it’s informative and looks like dye is better than regular off the shelf stain. Just wanted to share.

[jackiejadow]

Thank you that is very helpful, how would you top coat the gel stain !

[hillarie_hillviewpaint]

🙌 YOU KNOCKED IT OUT OF THE PARK!!!! This video is the 💯 the best tutorial for those not familiar with (gel stain)
I have been using Old Masters gel stain for several years and it is by far my favorite product when I am staining wood, metal, hardy board, etc..
Can I make a suggestion ? Your video is so outstanding and I feel rude even to suggest something... but if you make more videos like this, informing all the DYI folks about the caution to take for "used stain rags" Very combustible! So many people dont read the caution label. Any firefighter will certainly agree lots of dumpster fires due to stain rags. A lot of paint stores like Sherwin-Williams, or Jones Paint & Glass will give you an empty gallon paint can to dispose of them safely.
I just came across your video, I'm about to subscribe and I will certainly be watching more. Well done my dear!👍

[AmandaKFrayer]

thanks so much for this tutorial, was exactly what i needed for a pine cabinet project i’m working on.

i read the post on your website as well, very informative. only follow up question i have, what type of rag/applicator do you recommend for sus with the GF gel stain product?
thanks so much!