Application on Bare Wood: Apply stain liberally with brush or soft rag and remove excess, wiping in the direction of the grain. For a darker color, re-stain when first coat is dry. For a lighter color, wipe with a rag dampened with paint thinner before stain has dried. Application on Fiberglass & Composition Surfaces: Stain one section or panel at a time. Apply a liberal coat of Gel Stain with a firm synthetic brush or lint-free rag and work the stain across and into the grain uniformly, feathering out streaks while the stain is wet. Wipe brush often on a lint-free rag to remove excess stain. Application over Painted Surfaces: To create a simulated wood look, apply stain to painted surface with foam or bristle brush or cheesecloth using long, smooth strokes. Application over Previously Finished Surfaces: Scuff sand surface before application. Remove dust. Apply a liberal coat of Gel Stain with a firm synthetic brush or lint-free rag and work the stain across and into the grain uniformly, feathering out streaks while stain is wet. Wipe brush often on a lint-free rag to remove excess stain. If applying stain exteriorly, top coating with our Superior Topcoat Gloss is strongly recommended.