Varnished Wood Can Be Painted

Your results will only be as good or better than your preparation work. Applying the paint is just one part of a painting project. Varnished wood can be treated with any varnish stripper. Here are some tips to help you achieve great results painting varnished timber.

Before you get started

To avoid injury or damage to your home, take safety precautions when working on household projects. Always use proper eye protection when using chemicals and cleaning products. Protective goggles are also recommended for use with power tools, such as orbital sanders. Ensure that pets and children stay away from work areas, too.

Step 1: Sanding

A random orbital sander can be used to quickly prepare the surface. Use 180-grit sandpaper to sand the wood until it is no longer glossy. Use a sanding sponge to smooth out corners or other tight spots. While it's not necessary to remove all varnish, it is essential to remove as much as possible of the glossy finish. After you have finished sanding the piece, vacuum any remaining dust and wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any traces of dust.

Step 2: Choose Your Primer

A standard primer should work fine if you are able to sand the wood to an unfinished condition. Look for a primer with superior adhesion that can cover any varnish left on the wood. PrepRite ProBlock by Sherwin Williams is a great choice to create a smooth surface ready for painting. Some primers require a second coat. If you are directed, apply it.

Step 3: It's Time to Paint

After the primer has dried completely, give the whole piece a gentle sanding using a fine-grit block. To remove any dust, vacuum the entire piece once more. Paint can be applied using a high-quality paint brush. This is an area that will greatly improve the finished product. Brush off any drips from corners and edges. Apply two to three coats of paint if necessary. Allow enough time for the paint to dry between coatings. After you have achieved the desired paint finish, you can apply polyurethane (or any other protective finish) to it.

We can help you if you have any questions or are having difficulty with your project.