Painting bare wood is a fun do-it-yourself (DIY) project, but it requires preparation and good technique for a long-lasting finish. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the necessary steps, helping you avoid common issues and get professional-looking results. You can follow along in the video above as Jenn Largesse demonstrates these techniques and offers tips for both new and experienced painters.
Preparing the Wood Surface Before Painting
Before you begin painting, you’ll need to sand and clean the wood surface to help the paint adhere better.
Sanding the Wood
Even if the wood looks smooth, sanding helps eliminate small imperfections and rough spots, removes any protective glaze on stock lumber, and opens up the wood grain for better paint adhesion. To sand wood, do the following:
- Choose the right sandpaper grit (150-grit is good for most projects).
- Sand in the direction of the wood grain.
- Use even pressure to avoid creating uneven areas.
- Vacuum the surface after sanding.
- Wipe down the wood with a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust.
Cleaning the Surface
After sanding, you need to clean the wood surface thoroughly to remove any dust, oils, or debris that could interfere with paint adhesion. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove loose dust, and wipe down the surface with a damp cloth. Allow the wood to dry completely before proceeding to the next steps.
Sealing and Priming the Bare Wood
Sealing and priming are the next steps in painting bare wood. This creates a smooth, attractive finish and long-lasting results.
Sealing Knots
Wood knots can be hard to paint because they usually bleed through paint over time. To prevent this, apply a specialized knot sealer or shellac to each one. Let the sealer dry completely before applying primer.
Largesse recommends an oil-based spray primer for sealing knots. It has the benefits of oil-based products without messy cleanup. We recommend products like KILZ or shellac.
Applying Primer
Apply your primer evenly using a brush, roller, or sprayer, allowing it to dry completely between coats. You should also sand lightly between coats for a smoother surface. Bare wood tends to absorb more paint, so it’s normal for the first coat or two to look uneven. Apply many thin coats for best results.
Choosing the Right Paint for Bare Wood
Consider factors such as wood type, project location, and desired finish when choosing your paint. There are several paint types meant for bare wood, each with their own benefits.
- Chalk paint provides a matte finish and often doesn’t require primer.
- Latex paint is easy to clean up. It’s quick-drying and produces little odor.
- Milk paint is a more natural option that penetrates the wood for a durable finish.
- Oil-based paint is durable and provides a smooth finish but has a longer drying time.
Largesse says a paint expert can recommend the correct base for your chosen color before tinting. This will ensure your finished product has the right color and coverage.
Painting Techniques for Bare Wood
Now that you’ve prepared the surface and chosen your paint, it’s time to apply the topcoat. Following proper painting techniques will help you get a professional-looking finish.
Applying the Paint
- Stir the paint thoroughly before use.
- Apply thin, even coats using a high-quality brush or roller.
- Paint in the direction of the wood grain.
- Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
- Sand lightly between coats for a smoother finish.
Multiple Coat Application
Painting bare wood often requires multiple coats for full coverage and the desired color depth. Be patient and allow each coat to dry completely. Lightly sand between coats to smooth down the raised wood grain. Consider using a tinted primer to reduce the number of topcoats needed. For dark colors, use a gray-tinted primer to get better coverage.
Dealing With Common Issues When Painting Bare Wood
Even with preparation and proper techniques, you may encounter some issues when painting bare wood. Here are some common problems and solutions.
Addressing Streaks and Brush Marks
Streaks and brush marks are common concerns when painting bare wood. To minimize marks, use a high-quality brush or roller and apply multiple thin coats of paint. You can also consider adding a paint conditioner to improve its quality and make it easier to use.
Tackling Bubbles and Cracks
Bubbles and cracks can also occur, especially if the paint dries too quickly or if the wood isn’t properly primed. To address these issues, lightly sand the surface to remove bubbles or cracks and apply a thin layer of primer before repainting. Make sure you avoid high humidity and extreme temperatures where you’re painting for proper drying conditions.
Guaranteeing Long-Lasting Results
Long-lasting results depend on many factors, from the material quality used to the environmental conditions during and after painting. Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for drying and curing times, and consider applying a protective topcoat for more durability.
