How to Paint Over a Varnished Finish

Painting over a varnished finish can update the look of old furnishings.

A varnished finish helps protect wood from stains, scratches and daily wear and tear. Without the proper knowledge or experience, adding a coat of paint to a varnished finish can result in blotchy and peeling results. With a little planning and know-how, however, virtually anyone can learn to paint over a varnished finish and add a fresh look to a wood surface. Follow a few simple steps to apply paint over a varnished finish.

Things You'll Need

• All-purpose cleaner
• Scouring pad
• Towel
• Sandpaper
• Vacuum
• Denatured alcohol or paint thinner
• Oil primer or alkyd bonding primer
• Oil or latex paint
• Paintbrush or paint roller
• Rag

Instructions

1. Spray all-purpose cleaner over the varnished finish surface you intend to paint over. Thoroughly wipe down the surface with a clean towel to remove any build-up of oil, dust or dirt on the surface.

2. Scrub the surface thoroughly, using a scouring pad. The pad will remove any remaining dirt on the varnished finish. Sand over the surface thoroughly with sandpaper to rough up the finish and allow a better grip for the primer.

3. Vacuum off any residual dust or other debris left over from the sanding and scouring, using a vacuum hose extension. Pour paint thinner or denatured alcohol onto a clean rag and thoroughly wipe down the surface to strip off some of the varnish material and prepare it for priming.

4. Apply a coat of alkyd bonding primer or oil primer according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a paintbrush or roller to apply the primer to the surface. Wait for the primer to dry fully.

5. Apply a coat of oil or latex paint, using a paintbrush or roller, according to the manufacturer's instructions. Wait for the paint to dry fully. Apply a second coat of paint if needed, and wait for it to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Always work in a well-ventilated area.

• Solvent-soaked rags are highly flammable. Take any rags saturated with denatured alcohol or paint thinner solvent outdoors and dry them, either by placing them on a nonflammable surface or hanging them up.

• Always wear safety gloves and goggles when working with chemicals to avoid injuries.

References

• Painting And Decorating Concourse: Painting Over Varnish
• "Black & Decker The Complete Photo Guide to Home Repair"; Editors of Creative Publishing; 2008

Resources

• "Furniture Restoration: Step-By-Step Tips and Techniques for Professional Results"; Allen Marx; 2007