How to Whitewash Unfinished Furniture

Whitewashed unfinished furniture for an old-fashioned look.

Whitewashing is an age-old solution to stain furniture and buildings that was traditionally made from lime or chalk. Whitewash is more often used these days to achieve a weathered or shabby chic look. Companies now offer white stains that are easy to apply to unfinished furniture, or you can make your own by adding water to white latex paint or by adding paint thinner to oil-based paint. Using a diluted paint allows the wood grain to show. This technique works especially well over pine.

Things You'll Need

• Sandpaper
• Whitewash
• Clean rags
• Sealer, optional

Instructions

1. Sand any rough spots on the unfinished furniture until the piece is totally smooth. Wipe the surface with a wet rag to remove all wood particles and dust.

2. Use a second rag or a paintbrush to apply the whitewash to the furniture. Use plenty of whitewash to make sure every inch of the surface is covered. Use a rag to wipe off the excess whitewash and reveal the grain of the wood.

3. Apply additional coats of whitewash if you want a more opaque look. It's better to apply a couple of thin coats to make sure you don't overdo it. Two coats is usually enough. Wait about four hours between coats.

4. Allow the furniture to dry for 24 hours after the final coat of whitewash. You can seal the finish by applying a clear coat according to the instructions, or leave it unprotected to allow the whitewash to wear away naturally.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear old clothes.

• Put newspaper or old towels underneath the furniture before beginning.

• Work in a well-ventilated area.

References

• "Painting Techniques & Faux Finishes"; Louise Hennings and Marina Niven