Varnished Wood: Can It Be Painted On?

Like all painting projects, the quality of your work will determine how successful your project is. The essential part of the entire process is preparation. Varnished wood doesn't require you to use a varnish stripper. This is how to paint varnished wood with excellent results.

Before you start

Safety precautions are essential for any household project. This will help prevent injuries and accidental damage. Wear protective eyewear and gloves when handling chemicals and cleaning solutions. When using power tools like orbital sanders, it is important to use protective goggles to protect your eyes and to keep pets and kids away from the work area.

Step 1: Sanding

In most cases, a random orbital grinder will do the job quickly. Use 180-grit sandpaper to smoothen the wood. You can use a sanding brush or a little bit of sandpaper to get rid of any corners. Although it is not essential to remove all the varnish, it is crucial to get rid of as much of its glossy finish as possible. After you are done with sanding, remove as much dust from the surface as possible. Next, wipe the area with a damp towel to eliminate all the dust.

Step 2: Choose your primer

A standard primer is likely to work well for your piece if the wood can be sanded back to its original state. You should look for a primer that is stronger in adhesion and can be used to cover up any varnish. PrepRite ProBlock from Sherwin-Williams makes it easy to smoothen the surface and make it ready for paint. Some primers recommend applying a second coat.

Step 3: Now it's time for you to paint

After the primer is dry, give the entire piece an extremely gentle sanding using a fine-grit stone sanding block. Then, vacuum the whole thing again, and wipe it down with a tack cloth to remove any dust. Use a high-quality paintbrush to apply paint. This is one spot where a little extra money can make a big difference in the final result. Make sure you brush off any drips along corners and edges. You will need to apply 2 to 3 coats of paint, allowing enough time between each coat to dry completely. Once you have finished your desired outcome, apply polyurethane and/or a protective finish.

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