I was fortunate enough to be recommended to a wonderful family for a project to take their beloved antique Cypress front door (that could no longer be used due to Hurricane/Impact Codes here in South Florida) and turn it into something new. The piece was in rough shape to say the least but after hearing the history on the Door, l agreed to take on the project. First things first, l began the task of sanding off many decades of stains and finish layers and got the door down to original wood. It was quite beautiful under all that reddish brown to faded gray and peeling gunk!
I knew that a project this special required a stain and finish that would compliment the beauty of the wood grain, while blending smoothly with the decades old original finish on the interior side of the door. For me, that meant l would travel 2 hours round trip to pick up what is without a doubt my "go to" products for a piece that has to meet the higher standards of customer's with an eye for details and a project that means a lot to them.
General Finishes "Candlelight" Gel Stain was just what l needed to bring out the subtle reds, the rich browns and hints of that flame amber that a wonderful Cypress door deserves - it's awesome and l love it. The various colors of "Candlelight" just move and change as you walk around the piece giving it depth and richness like no other product on the market.
After just one coat of Gel Stain and 24 hours of dry time, it was time for the first of 3 Coats of General Finishes Arm R Seal Satin Oil and Finish. The result was truly fabulous! The door's original hardware was was touched up and put back on the now "Dutch Door" style Coffee Table. I am happy to report that the clients were very, VERY pleased with their "new" coffee table. It is now the centerpiece of the sitting area and will last for generations of love and laughter over wine with friends and family - Thank You General Finishes for making such wonderful products and keep them coming - l trust your lineup, when it has to be just right - it has to be General Finishes!
