Gilsonite in Wood Stains and Preservatives
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Gilsonite gives rich brown-to-black tones in wood stains and adds water repellence.
Benefits
- Penetrates wood grain when dissolved in thin solvents
- Rich, warm colours (in dilute form, gilsonite gives brown tones)
- Water resistance
Uses
- Furniture and cabinetry stains
- Fence and deck stains
- Timber preservatives

Tip
Dilute gilsonite solutions give walnut and mahogany tones; adjust with dyes or pigments.
How gilsonite colours wood
In thin solutions gilsonite gives warm brown shades; in thicker films it is black. It penetrates wood grain when dissolved in low-viscosity solvents and leaves a water-repellent finish.
Typical stain recipe idea
| Component | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Gilsonite | Colour, binder, water repellence |
| Linseed oil or alkyd | Penetrating binder |
| Mineral spirits | Thinner |
| Optional dyes | Colour adjustment |
Application
Apply with brush or rag, wipe off excess, allow to dry and apply a clear topcoat if needed.
Uses
Furniture, fences, decks, beams and traditional joinery.
Recommended product
Data sheet
Ink & Paint Grade Gilsonite
| Property | Typical value | Test method |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Dark brown–black powder | Visual |
| Softening point (R&B) | 150 – 180 °C | ASTM D36 |
| Ash content, max | 3 % | ASTM D3174 |
| Moisture, max | 1 % | ASTM D95 |
| Solubility in toluene, min | 99 % | ASTM D2042 |
| Particle size | 200 – 600 mesh | Sieve |
| Typical dosage | Ink varnish: 20–40 % in oil | |
| Packing | 25 kg paper bags with PE liner, palletized. | |
Typical values. The final specification is confirmed in the COA of each shipment.

