You are here:

Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/Rush Seats -- painting

Advertisement


Question
How does one paint a rush seat that has never been painted? It is so stained, something must be done. It is in great shape other than the staining.

Also, can it be stained? I have thought maybe a dark stain would cover the discolored areas.

Answer
I am not a pro where stain and paint is concerned, being a stair builder, but I've encountered your circumstance.  Something pre-stained and discolored, I generally will sand off most of the finish with an orbital sander so that the stain can penetrate the wood pours.  Otherwise, even the use of a dark stain will enhance a blotchy look.  If painting, you would first need to sand lightly, clean all dust off, and apply a coat of primer, then paint.  If you paint it directly, it may not adhere to the pre-finished materials and later peal off.  Premiering will help guard against this.  Hope my own experiences help here.

Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks

All Answers


Answers by Expert:


Ask Experts

Volunteer


Joseph G. Swallow

Expertise

I can answer all staircase balustrade questions where handrails, newels posts, balusters (wood and metal), and stair treads are concerned. I cannot help with cabinetry and floor (outside of stair-related treads and risers), as well as stain and finish issues unless staircase related.

Experience

30 years in the stair industry. Founder of Hardwood Creations in Southern California and CEO of Westfire Manufacturing, Inc. I was a stair builder for 10 years, both in custom and production housing. Have estimated over 750,000 single family homes and provided materials to lumber yards and builders for 12 years. Was an expert witness in several staircase related law suits in Southern California. Stair codes, installation help, stair handrail and balustrade installation are what I know best.

Organizations
NAHB of Portland, OR. Was a member of ICBO for 9 years.

Education/Credentials
Cal State Fullerton, Cypress College

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.