Going back a little

Here is my first major project that I tried.  After looking on Pinterest I had the bright idea to redo my stairs.  Little did I know what a task this would become. I bought the stains and paints but wanted to try it out before actually ripping up my whole stairway so I decided to try it on the upstairs hall.

 The before one view of the hall towards the stairs

The opposite view towards the bedrooms and bathroom

 I did sand the doors a little, just enough to take the gloss off. Some said you I didn't need to do this but I didn't want to have to re-do it.

 Started wiping the gel stain on with a rubber glove and my husbands tube sock over top.  The easiest thing ever to do. 

I did the top of the door and my son wanted to do the bottom.  Really it was that easy that he was able to do it himself.  I let it dry and then applied a second coat.  I really liked the dark chocolate look so  I did not wipe off after staining just left everything on.  You can do it to whatever look you like.  Make sure to let completely dry before putting the poly on.  I also used the gel poly and just wiped on the same way.  I used General Finishes Java Gel. 

 The after of the hallway.  I painted the base boards and trim and replaced the light.



 Opposite view.  What a difference it makes.  I love it!