How to paint a wooden shelf

Would you like to give your home a new look without spending a lot of money? Painting a wooden bookshelf is a simple way to renovate your space and give life to those pieces of furniture that you are no longer excited about. In this post, we show you how to paint a wooden shelf step by step, with simple tricks to make the process easy and fun.

Materials you will need

Before you start, make sure you have everything ready:

• Medium and fine grit sandpaper
• Wood primer (optional, but recommended)
• Wood paint (can be enamel, acrylic paint or even chalk paint)
• Roller and brushes
• Painter's tape
• Cleaning rags
• Protective gloves and mask (safety first)

Step 1: Preparation of the shelf

For the paint to look good, the most important thing is to prepare the surface well. Here we tell you how to do it:

1. Clean the shelf: Wipe the shelf with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt. If the shelf has grease or stains, a little soapy water will suffice.

2. Sand the wood: With a medium grit sandpaper (120), smooth the surface of the shelf. If it was already painted or varnished, you need to remove that glossy finish. Then, use a fine-grit sandpaper (240) to make it smooth.

3. Fill imperfections: If you see holes or small cracks, use wood filler. Once dry, sand lightly.

Step 2: Apply primer

Priming is key if you want the paint to adhere well and last longer. Especially if you want to paint in light colors or are thinking about how to paint a wooden shelf in white.

1. Apply a coat of primer: Use a roller for the large parts and a brush for the corners. The key is to do it in thin coats to avoid drips.

2. Allow to dry: This may take 1 to 2 hours, depending on the product. When dry, sand lightly to make sure the surface is smooth.

Step 3: Let's paint!

Now that your shelf is ready, here comes the fun part: painting!

1. First coat of paint: With a roller, apply a thin layer of paint. For details and edges, use a brush. If you're wondering how to paint a wooden shelf white, now is the time to choose a paint with good coverage.

2. Let dry well: Between coats, it is important to let the paint dry completely. This may take 4 to 6 hours.

3. Sand between coats: For a smooth, professional finish, sand lightly between coats with fine sandpaper. This helps to remove any imperfections or bubbles.

4. Apply a second coat: Most of the time, you will need at least two coats for a perfect finish. If you prefer, you can even apply a third coat.

Step 4: Protect your work

To make your painted shelf will last a long time, apply a varnish or sealant. This will not only protect the paint from scratches, but also make it easier to clean.

1. Choose a suitable varnish: Depending on the look you want, you can choose a matte, satin or gloss finish.

2. Apply the sealer: Use a brush and be sure to cover the entire shelf. Let it dry and avoid placing heavy objects until it is completely dry.

Extra tips that will come in handy

• If you like the vintage or rustic style, you can opt for chalk paint or try pickling for an aged effect.
• Use painter's tape to protect areas you don't want to paint, such as edges or legs.
• Work in a well ventilated area to avoid inhaling paint and primer fumes.

Give a unique touch to your shelves

You already know how to paint a wooden bookshelf, so it's time to get to work. It's a simple and inexpensive DIY project that can transform the look of any room. If you're looking for quality shelving to start your next project, don't miss out on our collection of natural wood shelving at Roble.Store. at Roble.Store.

Dare to give new life to your furniture with a touch of color!