Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Painting bookcases

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Expert: - 11/22/2008


Question
Hello, I have two oak finished bookcases that I would like to paint either black or white. I think they are both 'real wood' but one has some type of clear finish or possibly it could be a laminate finish.  I really don't want to do any sanding so I was wondering if I could just use spray paint on them. Should I also use a primer? I also might get adventurous and add some molding to update them. Thank you!!

Answer
Hi Anita
Nice to hear from you.
In order to paint a surface, it must be properly prepped to give the paint something to adhere too.
If you just spray paint on them without prepping the surface you will be wasting time and money as the paint will not stick.
You don't need a lot of agressive sanding. Just a light going over with 120 grit paper will be fine.
Priming is fine too.
In this application I do not recommend spray paint.
I really like your idea of adding molding to update these bookcases.
Great project.
Kind Regards
Eileen  

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Eileen Cronk

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Hi..I can answer most questions about the repairing,stripping and refinishing of all your old furniture and wood items(the things we call antiques)I can give advice about what to buy/avoid at auctions/flea markets. I do not give appraisals on antiques.

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I have been refinishing antiques for the past 30yrs. While I have taken several courses over the years,I have found that "hands on" learning is the best teacher. Perhaps I can help you avoid some of the mistakes I made while learning.

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