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Gel stain alternatives for faux wood effect?

I understand from some youtube videos that DIYers use gel stains for non-porous surfaces to create a faux wood effect. It doesn't look like there are any gel stains in NZ. Do we have a gel stain equivalent? If not, would oil-based stains adhere to a sanded painted MDF surface? thanks.

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JacobZ

Hi @jaceyt,

I can't say I had seen the technique you were referring to before, but I've had a look, and it looks like an interesting idea. By using a paintbrush, you are emulating the look of the fibres of the timber and creating the timber colour with a stain.

I also can't say I am aware of a gel-based stain that is available, but you could certainly give something like this Cabot's Water Based Interior Stain a try.

I'm not sure how well it would work, because I have never tried it or seen it done before. You could grab yourself a cheap piece of MDF, paint it and apply your stain, then see what you think before moving to a wider project.

If you add a clear varnish once the stain has dried, it should lock it in place and protect the finish.

Allow me to tag some of our knowledgeable members for their thoughts. @Dave-1, @Nailbag, @TedBear and @Noyade.

Jacob

Nailbag

Hi @jaceyt

Sorry but as with @JacobZ I have no experience with Gel stain's and not even heard of this technique.

Regards Nailbag

TedBear

Hi @jaceyt , sorry to be saying this on Bunnings Workshop, but you will probably get gel stain from MitreTen or from an art and craft store in NZ.

I have done wood effect painting in the past.

I used a narrow piece of lightly scrunched-up rag that had a coarse weave (like denim) and gave it a quick twist occasionally to create a wood knot effect. I found that the rag naturally wandered sideways a fraction as it wiped through the top coat, which gave a more natural look to the grain than a brush did.

Have fun playing with it though. Like all art projects, the best part of it is what you'll discover for yourself by playing with the medium first.

Dave-1

https://www.workshop.bunnings.com.au/discussion/comment/55120#Comment_55120

Good morning @jaceyt

I havnt come across the gel stain idea before I am afraid. I would be thinking MDF is going to absorb oil like a sponge so not sure what to recomend, @TedBear's suggestion tho does sound good, especially as he has done it before 🙂

Would love to see some photos of the effect you get when you try it 🙂

Dave

jaceyt

thank you all for your input!

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