How to Whitewash Furniture

Whitewash is a favorite for many, particularly French cottage and shabby chic fans. This process can be done on unfinished furniture or painted surfaces. Used for centuries, whitewashing is an easy way to 'distress' wood in a beautiful way.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fine-Grit Sandpaper
• Sanding Block
• Dry Cloths
• Plastic Container
• White Latex Paint
• 3-inch Paint Brush
• Clear Satin Polyurethane
• Nylon Abrasive Pad

1. Sand the surface of the item to be whitewashed with fine-grit sandpaper on a sanding block. Once sanding is complete, clean the surface with a dry cloth to remove any dust or paint chips.
   Items that have several layers of paint may need chemical stripping.

2. In a plastic container you will make your whitewash mixture. Mix 2 parts white latex paint and one part water.

3. Using a 3-inch brush, apply the whitewash mixture in long strokes following the wood grain.
   Whitewash tends to dry quickly so work in one small area at a time.

4. While the whitewash is still damp, wipe it down with a clean rag. This will remove some of the finish and allow the grain to show through.

5. Allow to dry completely and repeat steps 3 and 4.

6. After the whitewash is completely dry, sand the surface lightly to reveal more of the wood grain.

7. You must seal the surface of the whitewashed item with clear satin polyurethane. Do this in long, even brush strokes. Let it dry and rub with a nylon abrasive pad. Repeat.

[static404]

on 11/25/2009 Easy to follow instructions. Great job.

[lordkhomar]

on 1/24/2009 Good article, thank you! 5*