How to Oil Paint Furniture
Repair existing wooden furniture or design a one-of-a-kind treasure piece through painting. Preparation and technique are key steps in creating a long-lasting piece of furniture. Colors and patterns can be chosen to suit any theme and color palette.
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Things You'll Need
- Extra fine sand paper
- Medium fine sand paper
- Stencils or sponge
- Paint
- Paint brushes
- Primer
- Soft cloth
- Wax
- Wood putty
Instructions
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Wood Preparation
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1
Use either medium coarse steel wool or medium fine sandpaper to sand the wood. Sand the entire surface in the direction of the wood grain.
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2
Select an extra fine sandpaper and repeat the process. The wood will become soft to the touch, and a fine surface dust will form.
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3
Use a soft rag to remove any dust that has accumulated.
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4
Fill any cracks or holes left in the wood with wood putty. Let it dry, and sand the area again so that it is flush with the surrounding wood.
Prime and Paint
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5
Use a small amount of primer mixed with water for the base coat. Paint the wood using small strokes. Apply the paint thinly and let it dry for at least 24 hours.
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6
Sand the primed wood with extra fine sandpaper and wipe off the dust that forms.
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7
Apply two to three undiluted primer coats. Let the wood dry before adding additional coats. Sand lightly after each coat has dried so that the brush strokes are removed. Do not forget to wipe off any surface dust after sanding.
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8
Use oil-based paint to paint the top layers of the wooden furniture. First, paint the area by following the wood grain, and secondly paint the furniture against the wood grain. This ensures an even coat. Paint at least two layers of oil paint.
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9
To seal the furniture, drench a soft cloth with wax, but do not clump the wax onto the rag.
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10
Gently rub the wax over the surface of the furniture, coating it completely. After the wax has dried, buff the surface until it has a light sheen.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Cheesecloth rags can be used for applying the furniture wax, and for removing excess dust from the furniture. Wear a face mask and protective eye glasses when sanding to keep the mouth and eyes free from debris.
Paint furniture in a well-ventilated area to reduce the risk of toxicity from fumes.
