Expert: Eileen Cronk - 6/14/2010

Question
Hi,
I have a four poster from the 60's. It is in perfect condition. I want to strip it and paint it an egg shell white for my grand daughters room. I have refinished a china cabinet before and it turned out beautiful but i stained it, I haven't ever used paint. What tips do you have? Thanks, Gail

Answer
Hi Gail
Nice to hear from you.
There is no need to strip the bed if you are just painting it.
This is a straightforward job so just dig in.
First the wood must be prepped so the new paint will stick.
You prep by sanding.
Lightly sand all the wood using 120 grit sandpaper.
Next wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust (get one in the paint section of your store).
Next use a waterbased primer. Apply one coat.
Lightly sand.
Next is two coats of your paint. Use waterbased acrylic latex.
The most important tip I can give you is to use a really good paint brush.
When you purchase your paint, ask for the best available brush for the paint.
My current paint brush cost $12.00 its worth every penny and last a long time with care.
Great question
Regards
Eileen