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Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/brown spots on white furniture

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Expert: - 5/16/2009


Question
I read an answer to a previous question, but would like additional information.  I have a white piece of furniture that has brown spots appearing in various places on it.  This is apparently from the wood and not removable.  My questions are what would happen if I added a coat of white paint?  Would the spots show through again soon?  Is this a defect in the wood itself and do you know what causes it?

Thank you...Jay

Answer
Hi Jay
Nice to hear from you.
I suppose to a person this is a defect of sorts but to the tree I guess its called natural LOL.
Jay this is very common and caused by the wood sap.
If you added another coat of white paint the spots would appear on that too very soon. Five coats of paint and it will still bleed through.
To prevent this the wood needs to be painted with a shellac based primer.
So at this point you must sand your piece, seal and repaint.
Good Luck
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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