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quick projects | furniture/Cabinets | whitewash update
whitewash update
How to give your wood shelves a fresh look with a translucent white wash.

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Tools + Materials

  • sandpaper
  • tack cloth
  • white latex paint
  • water
  • paint brush

    1. Lightly sand the surface of the piece. Unfinished wood whitewashes best, but you can sand and then whitewash painted or stained pieces, although some of the original finish will show through. Wipe the surface with a tack cloth.
    2. Mix two parts white latex paint with one part water.
    3. Apply the whitewash mixture to the surface with a paintbrush, working quickly. Cover the entire surface. Let dry.

    Tip: Use a lint-free rag immediately after painting to wipe the surface and remove some paint, revealing more of the wood grain. Or wait until the finish dries and sand with fine sandpaper to remove portions of the finish.

    Here's another example of whitewashed furniture.

    Like what white can do for furniture? See how it transforms a brick fireplace!

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