Gels and Thickeners Give You More Control

Stains are often used in conjunction with stencils to produce intricate patterns, custom graphics, and logos. But because stains tend to be thin solutions to ensure good penetration, it can be a challenge to prevent them from bleeding under the stencil or to keep the application within defined pattern lines. An easy way to conquer this problem is to use a special thickening agent or gel that improves application control and permits freehand artistry.

Two examples of thickening agents include Stain Mule from Surface Gel Tek and Modello Gel-lo from Modello Concrete. Both products are designed to be mixed on the jobsite with acid or water-based stains to eliminate color bleeding or wicking. They also help to prevent dripping of stain on vertical surfaces.

Another product, Smith's Color Floor Gel from Smith Paints, is a viscose water-based gel stain developed for extra control when creating intricate patterns and crisp edges or lines. It dries to a natural, variegated finish and can be applied with a sea sponge or bristle brush.

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