Painting Over Stained Wood

Painting over stained wood can transform the look of any room, refreshing dated cabinets, furniture, doors, or trim with minimal cost. The stain has a rich, classic look, but the aesthetics of stained wood don’t always align with modern or fresh decor. Painting is a highly effective solution when you want to revamp the stained wood in your home. However, stained wood has specific characteristics that can make painting it tricky. With the right preparation and techniques, you can achieve a smooth, durable finish that lasts.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about painting over stained wood, from the essential tools and materials to avoidable mistakes and pro tips for a flawless outcome.

Why Paint Over Stained Wood?

Stained wood furniture and trim are often stained to highlight the natural beauty of the wood, giving it a timeless, organic look. But over time, even the wealthiest stain can look outdated, scratched, or worn. Painting over stained wood is cost-effective and allows for greater design choices, especially if you want to incorporate colour or a different finish into your decor. Painting can add personality to a space, complement other colours in a room, or simply make your woodwork look new and clean.

If you’re contemplating painting over stained wood but are unsure where to start, here’s a step-by-step guide to doing it right.

Step 1: Gathering the Right Materials

Before painting, ensure you have the right materials for prepping and painting the wood surface. Quality materials make a big difference in the finish and longevity of your work. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sandpaper or Sanding Sponge: 120-220 grit is best for breaking the finish without damaging the wood.
• Deglosser (optional): This can help reduce sanding time by chemically dulling the surface.
• Primer: Oil-based or shellac-based primers are excellent for covering stains and sealing wood.
• Paint: For durability, choose acrylic or latex paint, ideally in a semi-gloss or satin finish.
• Brushes and Rollers: High-quality brushes or foam rollers ensure smooth application and reduce visible brushstrokes.
• Tack Cloth or Damp Cloth: To wipe down the wood after sanding.
• Drop Cloth and Painter’s Tape: Protect your floors and other surfaces.

Having these tools and materials ready before you begin will make the process much smoother and more efficient.

Step 2: Prepping the Wood Surface

Preparation is the foundation for a quality paint job on stained wood. Without proper prep, stained wood surfaces, especially those with a glossy finish, don’t allow paint to adhere well. Skipping these steps can lead to peeling paint or uneven coverage.

Cleaning the Surface

The first step is to clean the wood thoroughly. Stained wood surfaces collect dust, grease, and oils, interfering with paint adhesion. Use a mild soap mixed with water to remove grime. If there’s a heavy buildup of grease or residue (often found on kitchen cabinets), a degreaser may be needed.

Pro Tip: Rinse and dry the surface after cleaning to remove any soap residue, which can also affect paint adhesion.

Sanding the Wood

Sanding is an essential step that helps roughen the surface of the wood, allowing primer and paint to stick. Use 120- to 220-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the entire surface, being careful to sand evenly without gouging or creating dips in the wood.

If the wood has intricate details or mouldings, consider using a sanding sponge, which is flexible enough to get into small spaces.

Pro Tip: For an easier option, you can use a liquid deglosser to dull the finish instead of sanding. This can save time, especially on surfaces with heavy gloss or varnish. Apply the deglosser with a cloth per the instructions and allow it to dry thoroughly before proceeding.

Step 3: Priming the Stained Wood

Priming is a crucial step when painting over stained wood, as it prevents the stain from bleeding through and affecting the colour and quality of your paint. Some stains, especially oil-based stains, can bleed through the paint if not properly primed.

Choosing the Right Primer

For the best results, use a shellac-based or oil-based primer, as these are particularly effective at sealing in stains and tannins in the wood. Water-based primers can work, but they’re not as effective at blocking bleed-through and may require multiple coats.

How to Apply Primer:

• Stir the primer well before applying.
• Use a quality brush or foam roller to apply a thin, even layer across the entire surface.
• Check for any missed spots, especially on edges or corners.
• Let the primer dry fully according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this takes 1-4 hours.

If the stain is very dark or the primer looks patchy after the first coat, consider applying a second coat for even coverage. A well-primed surface will improve paint adhesion and ensure a smooth, lasting finish.

Step 4: Painting the Wood

Once the primer is dry, you’re ready to apply paint. For long-lasting and attractive results, patience and technique are essential. Here’s what to do:

Choosing the Right Paint

Acrylic and latex paints work well for most wood surfaces, providing durability and ease of use. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are ideal for frequently touched surfaces like cabinets, doors, and furniture, as they are easy to clean and resistant to wear.

How to Apply Paint:

• Start with thin, even coats. Thick coats may look streaky or develop drips.
• Use a high-quality brush for intricate details and edges and a foam roller for flat surfaces.
• Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Drying times vary based on paint type, but most paints require 2-4 hours between coats.

For the best results, apply at least two coats, sanding lightly with fine-grit sandpaper between coats to smooth out any brushstrokes or imperfections.

Pro Tip: If you’re painting something heavily used, like a table or cabinet doors, consider adding an extra coat or two for durability.

Step 5: Optional – Apply a Clear Protective Topcoat

A clear protective topcoat is an intelligent addition if the painted surface will endure heavy use, such as in kitchens, bathrooms, or on frequently used furniture.

Choose a water-based polyurethane to avoid yellowing the paint over time. Apply the topcoat according to the manufacturer’s directions, and let it dry thoroughly. This final step will provide a durable layer that guards against chips, stains, and wear.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Skipping Sanding or Priming: This can lead to peeling paint and poor adhesion, especially if the wood is heavily stained or varnished.
2. Using the Wrong Primer or Paint: Oil-based primers are the best choice for stain-blocking, while water-based paints and finishes can sometimes cause bleed-through.
3. Rushing Drying Times: Rushing between coats can lead to bubbling, cracking, or a tacky finish.

Tips for a Perfect Finish

• Work in a Ventilated Area: Paint, primer, and stain fumes can be intense, so open windows or work in a well-ventilated area.
• Test in a Small Spot First: Especially with unknown woods or stains, testing in an inconspicuous area ensures the stain won’t bleed.
• Take Your Time: Proper preparation and patience lead to a professional finish.

Final Thoughts

Painting over stained wood isn’t just possible—it’s a fantastic way to renew and personalize your space. With proper preparation and suitable materials, you can create a smooth, vibrant finish that lasts. So, don’t hesitate to tackle stained wood confidently, whether it’s cabinets, doors, trim, or furniture. Happy painting!