Kona, Varathane Total Control Gel Stain Wood Stain-394749, Quart

This was my first attempt at staining bare wood. I found a lovely garden box for my patio but it was bare wood. I wanted it darker to match other planters I already have. I used a foam brush to apply the stain and a clean microfiber cloth to wipe it off. I chose the dark Kona color and I'm very pleased with it. It truly is dripless. My garage floor remained clean! Drying time is fast. I will apply a satin polyurethane to protect it from the weather. I chose the right product for my beginning project.

Awesome coverage. Easy to apply. And easy cleanups

Love this type of stain! So easy to use and so easy to clean up! As I said I love it!

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The Varathane Water-Based Total Control Gel Wood Stain in Dark Walnut offers an easy and precise application process, thanks to its thick, non-drip gel formula that allows for excellent control, especially on vertical surfaces and detailed woodwork. It applies smoothly with a brush or cloth, delivering rich, consistent color in just one coat. Drying time is quick—typically dry to the touch within 1 hour and ready for a topcoat in about 2 hours, making it ideal for faster project turnarounds. One quart covers up to 150 square feet, depending on wood type and application method. Cleanup is simple with just soap and water, adding to its user-friendliness. Odor level is minimal compared to oil-based stains, making it a great choice for indoor use without overwhelming fumes. Highly recommended!

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The odor smells strong but not unusual for these types of products. It went on smooth and even when applied. I did two coats on my back deck and it dried within a few hours. It looks gorgeous. The color is deep and looks new again. It brought life back to the wood.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] When I tell you this is a great gel stain, it really is!! It goes on so smooth, covers well, and dries quick! It was such an easy process and didn't have a strong of an odor as a normal stain! Wonderful product I highly recommend if you are looking for a stain!

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] We decided it was time to refurbish this family secretary cabinet and this stain went above and beyond to make that process so streamlined. With a two coat coverage and minimal odor, it's hard to beat.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] My fake owl, Oscar, needed his ugly pole stained. We brushed it on with a sponge brush and used an old towel to rub it in for a lived in look. It turned out so good and I have a ton leftover for another project. It was very easy to use and didn't have an overwhelming odor.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] The color was spot on. It was very well packed so no leaks or spill during transit. The application is very easy and the odor is low. Drying time is a bit more to get the tacky feeling gone. Overall is a nice product that I would recommend.

[This review was collected as part of a promotion.] Easy to apply and clean up! Both very important! I stained my table, it covered well and only needed two coats. It dried pretty fast so I was snappy about that. It smelled like you would expect stain to smell but it wasn't over powering at all.