Showing posts with label mantel piece. Show all posts
Showing posts with label mantel piece. Show all posts

Sunday, August 24, 2014

Gel Stain on the Mantel

There is so much gel stain left from the family bathroom cabinets, I decided to try it on the fireplace mantel. I would like to paint the brick one day too, but have to convince husband it will look nice. Nothing seems to coordinate with the  brick, but I digress.  

Check out the before and after photos of the mantel. 

After wiping with TSP substitute (because I had it on hand) and a sanding with extra fine sand paper. 



2 Coats of General Finishes Brown Mahogany Gel Stain later… 


 Up close of what happens after quickly cleaning. I didn't notice there were old wax drips on the mantel. Gel stain won't cover this and I will need to sand and stain again before I can put the gel topcoat over the entire thing.  
I must admit the darker wood makes the fireplace color more bearable. Although an all white fireplace would look great too ;-)