To Paint or Not to Paint Wood, that is the Question!

For many, wood is a precious material that should never be altered. But then what can you do when it’s out of style? Over the past few years, wood, whether exotic or locally sourced, has become a very trendy material. It is strategically used to decorate contemporary-styled homes: exclusively teak wood furniture in the living room, ceiling lamps featuring an oak base, restored ceiling beams, barn wood-framed mirror. The options are endless! But, obviously, not all wood tones are considered stylish today.

Then what to do with obviously outmoded, but good quality kitchen cabinets? Or when Grandma bequeaths her antique chair to us, but it is in a nauseating shade? A new coat of paint may seem like the obvious answer; however, many hesitate to take this step.

Opinions Are Divided

It is often lovers of antiques who are most reticent to modify wood. They are afraid of disrespecting the artisan, impacting the object’s value or regretting a momentary fashion choice. Most interior design professionals disagree, though, believing instead that it is better to update furniture and kitchen cabinets than to abandon them in the attic or live with their outdated look. Home decor television shows frequently show experts painting over cabinets, walls or furniture to harmonize or modernize a room. The results are often breathtaking … and banish all doubts!

Moreover, it is possible to restore painted wood simply by stripping it. Reassuring, no? But understand that for total coverage, the paint must be carefully applied.

For Perfectly Painted Wood in 7 Steps

1. Set up in a well-ventilated room (or why not outside, but protected from bad weather?) If you are working on cabinets, remove them and arrange them as separate pieces for seamless results. Likewise, remove doors from furniture.
2. Clean the items you want to paint, removing all dust and dirt. Pay special attention to gaps and small cavities.
3. Time to sand: either by hand for small items or with a sander for larger surface. Don’t forget to move parallel to the grain to avoid damaging the surface, taking special care to avoid circular movements. Finish this step by wiping down with a damp cloth.
4. If there are any imperfections, like holes, this is the moment to patch them with wood filler.
5. Once everything is dry, apply an even coat of primer. Then, sand lightly with super fine sandpaper to make the wood smooth. If bubbles or hairs from your brush have been accidentally left behind when painting, this is your opportunity to remove them!
6. You can now finally paint on your new colour. Chosen a paint brush or roller of the appropriate size for the surface area. Three coats will probably be necessary, lightly sanding between each to remove imperfections.
7. Admire your masterpiece!