How to Achieve a Durable Finish with Fusion Mineral Paint’s Gel Stain and Top Coat: A Complete Guide

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Fusion Mineral Paint’s Gel Stain and Top Coat is a powerful, one-step solution for those looking to achieve a durable and beautiful finish on a variety of interior surfaces. Whether you’re working on a tabletop, desk, cabinetry, or even floors, this brush-on product offers a satin finish that resists water, food stains, alcohol, grease, and detergents. Despite its durability, many are hesitant to use it because it seems difficult—but with the right approach, it’s actually quite straightforward.

What Makes Fusion Gel Stain and Top Coat Special?

Fusion’s Gel Stain and Top Coat is more than just a stain—it’s a super durable top coat that’s perfect for heavily used interior surfaces. Unlike traditional stains that require wiping back, this gel stain is brush-on, making it a convenient one-step product that builds up to a rich, solid color with subsequent coats. But what truly sets Fusion Gel Stain and Top Coat apart is that it’s more of a tinted urethane product—think of it as polyurethane with a tint. This unique formulation combines the strength and durability of urethane with the beauty and richness of a stained finish, providing both protection and color in one easy step. You can apply it over a previously coated surface with little to no prep, provided the existing finish isn’t peeling or flaking.

Key Features

*   Durable Satin Finish: Resists water, food stains, alcohol, grease, and detergents.   

*   Brush-On Application: No need to wipe back, which makes the process simpler.

*   Tinted Urethane: Offers the durability of polyurethane with the added beauty of a tinted stain.

*    Available in four different colors

1. Patina A yellowish amber tint perfect for creating a patina effect.
2. GreystoneA gray-tinted gel stain for a modern, muted look.
3. Double Espresso: The darkest, least translucent option for a deep, rich finish.
4. Black Gel Stain: A classic black gel stain for a bold, striking appearance 

 * Ideal for High-Traffic Areas: Perfect for tabletops, cabinetry, desks, and floors.

 * Easy Surface Preparation: Requires minimal prep—perfect for those looking to save time.

Preparing Your Surface

While minimal prep is required, it’s crucial to properly clean your surface to ensure the best results. Here’s how to prepare your surface for a smooth finish:

   1. Clean Thoroughly: Remove any grease, oil, dirt, shellac, or dust using Fusion TSP Alternative. This step is crucial to ensure proper adhesion and a smooth finish.

    2. Check the Existing Finish: If the previous coating isn’t peeling or flaking, there’s no need to sand or strip it. However, if the old finish has worn down to expose a different substrate or has severe blemishes, you may need to address these before applying the gel stain.

    3. Avoid Certain Surfaces: Do not apply the gel stain to wet surfaces, asphalt, shellac, vinyl, or linoleum tile.

Application Process

  1.            Stir Thoroughly: One of the most important steps in applying Fusion’s Gel Stain and Top Coat is stirring. You must stir the product continuously for at least five minutes—this is crucial. Do not shake the can, as this will introduce bubbles, which can lead to an uneven finish.

  2.            Apply with the Right Tools:

                •             Use a high-quality Staalmeester brush, especially a Staalmeester Flat Wide Ultimate One #7, for a smooth finish. A Staalmeester 10cm Micro Felt Paint Roller can also be used, but avoid foam rollers as they can introduce unwanted texture to the finish.

                •             Tip: One coat will appear more translucent, while subsequent coats can be built up to achieve a solid color. Depending on the look you’re going for, you can apply one or more coats.

If you’re new to using Fusion Mineral Paint products, you might also find our How to Prep Furniture for Fusion Mineral Paint: A Step-by-Step Guide  helpful for ensuring a smooth and professional finish.

                3.            Drying and Re-Coat Time:

                •             The gel stain dries to the touch in about four hours, and you can re-coat after four hours.

                •             Lightly use the surface after 24 hours, but for full durability, allow approximately seven days for the top coat to fully cure.

                4.            Cleanup: After applying the gel stain, it’s essential to clean your brushes thoroughly with Odourless Solvent.

                                This will remove the oil and gel stain residue, preserving the quality of your Staalmeester brushes for future use.

Coverage

A single can of Fusion’s Gel Stain and Top Coat (31.9 fluid ounces) covers approximately 120 square feet, making it a cost-effective solution for large projects.

Final Thoughts

While Fusion Mineral Paint’s Gel Stain and Top Coat might seem intimidating, it’s actually a user-friendly product that delivers professional-grade results with minimal effort. Its durable, satin finish makes it ideal for surfaces that see heavy use, such as tabletops, cabinetry, and floors. With the right preparation and tools, you can achieve a stunning, long-lasting finish that will stand the test of time.

For more information and to explore other products, visit the Fusion Mineral Paint website. If you prefer in-store shopping, you’ll find all of our Fusion Mineral Paint and accessories, as well as Milk Paint by Fusion, at  AnitaTrinket  in Fleetwood, PA. Here, you can also shop our beautifully transformed pieces of furniture, get expert advice, see live demonstrations of all the products, and participate in workshops where you can get hands-on experience. We also offer nationwide shipping with fast delivery from Pottsville, PA, so no matter where you are, you can enjoy the quality and convenience of Fusion Mineral Paint.