How to stencil my stair riser with gel stain?

Linda! Oh! that would look great!

https://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/skills-and-know-how/painting/how-to-use-stain-for-stenciling-on-wood

Hi Linda, here is some help and some great ideas: https://followtheyellowbrickhome.com/swoonworthy-staircase-makeover-ideas/

Its been my experience with gel stain that it works pretty much like a pain so you should be able to stencil it like paint. Just use as little as possible to avoid bleeding.

No differently than any other project. On a horizontal surface you may want to use a spray adhesive to the back of the stencil for each time. This is because it will have a tendency to run down where stencil a counter of floor the stencil is flush with the surface. Hobby Lobby carries Repositionable spray adhesive that you can get online if you don't have one near you.

I highly recommend using a small roller if possible. I have found that it is the best way to apply paint (or gel stain with is rather thick and behaves like paint) to a stencil. You need a really tight foam roller. I have done pillows, wood projects and walls that way. Here's a link to a project I did recently and the tools I used. Good luck...great idea!

https://www.exquisitelyunremarkable.com/2020/04/how-to-stencil-a-bathroom-wall.html

I agree. Your method would be the same for gel stain as for any other paint. This video tutorial might be of help: https://youtu.be/WGLl0yRzvNs

Hello. I would look at your manufacturers stain can and follow their instructions. Very often the best result will be following the instructions the manufacturer recommends. It is risky to do otherwise

Use a makup sponge to apply the stain. Using a brush may force stain under the stencil.

Dab the paint onto the riser with a makeup brush or sponge to fill in the stencil openings

Sounds so pretty!

I would use make-up sponges for this job. And even at that dab with little paint as possible. Sounds like a great idea. Good luck and be well.