How to Whitewash a Pine Armoire

Whitewashing creates a rustic antique look on furniture.

Whitewashing is a painting technique in which a diluted mixture of white paint is applied to wood, such as a pine armoire, creating an antique look. Once dry, the whitewash finish is semi-transparent, allowing the underlying wood to show through in some places. When whitewashing a pine armoire, it is important that you properly prepare the wood before applying the paint. Whitewash will not adhere to slick or previously painted surfaces.

Things You'll Need

• Tarp
• Fine-grit sandpaper
• Tack cloth
• Bucket
• White latex paint with flat finish
• Water
• Paint stirrer
• Paint brush
• Clear, latex, water-based varnish

Instructions

1. Empty the armoire of all clothing and other objects and move it to an outdoor area or a well ventilated indoor area, such as a garage. Spread a tarp under the armoire to protect the floor or ground from paint splatters.

2. Sand down all surfaces of the pine armoire using a fine-grit sandpaper, such as 200. Follow the direction of the wood grain when sanding. The surface of the pine must be completely free of all previous paint and stain and must be slightly rough to the touch.

3. Wipe down the entire armoire with a tack cloth to remove all the sanding dust, which will interfere with the application of the whitewash.

4. Open a can of white, latex paint with a flat finish. Pour it into a bucket and add water until the solution drips easily off the paintbrush and resembles milk. Stir the mixture thoroughly using a paint stirrer until it is well combined.

5. Dip a paintbrush into the whitewash mixture and apply it to the entire surface of the pine armoire in a thin coat.

6. Allow the pine armoire to dry completely to the touch and decide whether you want the whitewash finish to be less transparent. If desired, apply a second coat of whitewash to the armoire.

7. Let the whitewashed armoire dry for at least 24 hours. Open a can of clear, latex, water-based varnish. Apply two coats of the varnish using a clean paintbrush and allow the first coat to dry thoroughly before applying the second coat.

References

• Art Sparx: Creating a Simulated Lime Wash Finish
• Don Vandervort's Home Tips: Whitewashing Interior Trim