Looking for feedback and input about Java Gel!

JAVA GEL

https://www.woodcraft.com/blog_entries/java-gel

Here's some info on the colors and finishes:

https://generalfinishes.com/all-colors

Hi Lesley, I have used Java Gel a lot and absolutely love the General Finishes gel stain... but... I have not ever just applied it over something else. I have always sanded down what I am working on. I would say at the very least if you are going to do cabinets that you will need to sand down (by hand even) the clear coat that is typically on them. If you apply the stain directly onto the clear coat you will have adhesion problems down the road. I have always chosen to sand anything I am working on also so that I don't have the previous colour affecting and showing throw the new colour. I absolutely love the product but I would test it first on an old cabinet door or on something small before going big :) I also love the Gel stain top coat. Paired with the Gel stain it is a fantastic top coat! Top coat has a bit of a learning curve but it is a great product. (If you decide to use it I am happy to share tips and tricks!) Here is a table I did with both... https://www.recreateddesigns.com/2016/07/federal-style-coffee-table/

I should also say that I have used Annie Sloan Chalk Paint equally as much. The difference with a quality paint like Annie Sloan is that it really does require very little prep work. I usually take a medium grit sandpaper, run it over the door and then apply the paint. The Annie Sloan and General Finishes are both high quality products and both amazing but they have very different looks. It will really depend on what look you prefer... painted finish (any colour) or stained finish. They both have little things to watch out for and to be aware of before starting (like any product). You can find lots of examples of both on the blog here... https://www.recreateddesigns.com. Hope this has helped a bit!

I agree completely with all that Recreated Designs said. It SO depends on the look you want to have. Perhaps start by trying each, stain and paint, on a couple of small pieces so you know what the look is on them and in your home. Some people paint the base of a table and then java gel the top or vice versa. Maybe try on an end table and then you can decide. Remember that the grain of the oak is going to remain either way.

Here are some reviews on amazon - https://www.amazon.com/General-Finishes-Java-Stain-Gallon/product-reviews/B00ELC52GA?pageNumber=3

Hi Lesley, hope this video helps you decide,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFahlv-QUfw

I have not used General Finishes Java Gel, but I have used a lot of their Milk Paint and cannot recommend it highly enough!!!

I'd tackle one room at a time and make a list of which room you want to do by priority or preference. I feel sometimes if you start on EVERYTHING at once, it tends to get overwhelming and never gets done! I'd maybe try the bathroom cabinets first before the kitchen, just to get a little practice in and it isn't as HUGE of a project. Here is how to do Java Gel for bathroom cabinets: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWtILDENl-g

Hello. I suggest look around at the links Amazon links to view reliable product reviews and ratings.

I personally can be influenced by the Amazon customer reviews and QA features— that often educate and influence my buying decisions in comparing the quality and effectiveness of products to chose the best product for my need and budget.

I used it to redo wood trim and a railing. I did sand first. It is more opaque than traditional stain when you put it on wood. Work in sections as it seemed to have a short working time for me. I didn't really like it until I put their gel stain sealer on it. I actually don't intend to use it again, but, I am comfortable working with regular stain and like the look more. I'm sure there will be many who love the stuff. I found it to be okay, but not as impressive as all the articles and tutorials claimed. But, I am not madly in love with chalk paint for every project either. Good luck and stay safe!

Here is some info https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oFahlv-QUfw

Java Gel is beautiful but time consuming. It does not absorb like regular stain. Try it first on a vanity to see if you like to use it. Gel takes a lot of elbow grease, must apply, let dry and rub off many times to get desired result. I am like Cynthia I would much rather use regular stain.

here is some info I found for you

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2R25dZomOSc