Expert: Eileen Cronk - 5/18/2008

Question
I have an old oak crib and dresser that were stained originally. It is 20 years old and I would like to paint the set white. I was thinking of spray painting the set, but have not had luck in the past. Spray paint left my furniture bumpy, and hand painting left brush stroke marks even with sanding between coats. How can I get a nice, smooth, shiny finish??

Answer
Hi Shannon
Nice to hear from you.
Doing a good paint job is a problem a lot of folks have.
I can think of three reasons for this.
1..Trying to spray or brush too much paint on at one time.
2..The type of brush you use.
3..Improper surface prep.
So first thing is the prep.
You must create a "tooth" for the paint to stick to.
This can be done with sanding or a TSP and steel wool scrub.
The scrub is good in the winter when you don't want a lot of dust in the home.
You use 120 grit sandpaper if you sand.
Just a light sanding then use a tac cloth to remove all dust.
Next is a primer on this oak wood.
Now you can spray or paint your top coat.
Three light coats sprayed on with drying time between should do a nice job. Very light coats.
If you brush the paint, you must have the proper brush.
None of those dollar store brushes.
You will be using all water based paints so get the best water based paint brush money can buy. You will not get brush marks with the proper brush.
My latest cost $12.00.
With proper cleaning it will last for years.
Most folks do too much "going back" over previously painted areas thinking this will be better. Its not.
Brush on a thin coat and leave it alone till dry.
Hopefully with the primer you will only need to apply two coats but maybe three it depends.
So dig in and do it..I know you can.
Great question
Regards
Eileen