Expert: Eileen Cronk - 12/7/2007

Question
eileen my decorator suggested insted of bombing my kitchen capnets I try white washing them. I can't find clear directions on how to she suggesed washing them with TSP then white washing. help

Answer
Hi Ann
Nice to hear from you.
This should be fairly simple Ann going on the premise that your decorator suggested this and suppossedly should know if it will work with what you have.
So the TSP solution will deglaze the surface so the new paint should stick.
But I would give the cabinets a real agressive going over with the TSP and use a medium steel wool pad as a scrubber.
The white washing is simply watered down white latex paint.
I suggest just doing one door as a sample. The back of one is best if you can.
The paint mixture will vary depending on how opaque you like it.
Try 1/2paint and 1/2water to start and dilute down with more water from there if necessary...probably won't be though.
Simply brush it on, and before it dries, wipe back with clean rags till you like the effect.
Personally I feel that with these dark cabinets you will not want to wipe back much.
Then a clear sealer if all goes well
I would use a water based poly to seal.
Oh yes, I would use a flat latex paint or maybe an egg shell. Not semi or high gloss.
Hope this helps
Regards
Eileen