You guys. I painted something to look like wood and it WORKED!
I'm not going to lie - there are times where I dread my self-inflicted DIY projects.. but this was not one of those times. Not only was it simple, but our final results were just TOO GOOD! So I'm going to break it down step-by-step so you can do it, too!
Supplies Needed:
- Primer (I used Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Primer)
- Sanding Block
- Base Paint Color (you can pick any brown paint that resembles to tone of wood you're going for)
- Stain (I used "Honey" by Varathane)
- Foam Brush
- Small Paint Roller
- Latex Gloves (if you're worried about staining your hands)
- Textured Throw Away Rag
- Painter's Tape
- Rust-Oleum 2X Ultra Cover in Matte Clear *MUST BE SPRAY PAINT*
How To:
- Start by wiping down your project using some type of degreaser (I just used some spray cleaner I had on hand)
- Apply your 1st coat of primer using your small roller.
- Allow your project to dry for 15-20 minutes before applying your 2nd coat.
- As soon as that has completely dried, you can apply your brown base coat. You'll want 2 coats of this as well!
- I would suggest allowing your base coat to dry OVERNIGHT. You're going to be wiping stain off - this can strip your paint off if it has not completely dried.
- Using your sanding block, lightly sand (like barely, barely pressing down) to smooth the paint. Wipe off any excess dust.
- Depending on your project, you'll want to tape of any horizontal lines. Think of wood cabinets - the grains generally go 2 ways. Like this:
- Tip: make sure you press down on the tape to avoid any leakage
- In between your tape lines, use your foam brush to apply vertical strokes of the stain. 1 coat.
- Now you will use your rag to wipe the stain off (again in vertical strokes - keeping your strokes straight and wiping all the way through to avoid clumping stain up at the edges).
- IMPORTANT: THE STAIN WILL BE STICKY SO DO NOT TOUCH IT UNTIL YOU'VE APPLIED YOUR CLEAR COAT!
- Once it has dried, remove the tape.
- Now, WITHOUT applying more tape, freehand your horizontal strokes.
- Then wipe off the stain.
- Apply the 1st coat of sealant, using the spray paint - stay 6 inches away so it does not puddle up.
- Last, add 1 more layer of clear coat and you're allllll done!
To WATCH me do this, head over to my Instagram and view my "Bathroom Vanity" Highlight.
UPDATE: 8 mos later and it is holding up AMAZING! No chips, wear, or scratches!