How to Paint Over Stained Wood: A No-Fail DIY Guide

Discover how to paint over stained wood with zero guesswork. Learn tips, tools, and real DIY steps for a flawless finish

Let’s go back to the summer of 2019. I was in my garage, sweating on my neck, and staring at the antique oak dresser my grandma gave me. It was a gorgeous item for sure, but that black, shiny stain? It just didn’t go with the bright, modern style I wanted for my new flat. People told me scary stories about paint peeling, bubbling, and running through when they tried to paint over wood that was already stained, especially if they didn’t account for wood stain drying time. But I was still determined. I did a lot of research, made a lot of mistakes (well, more than a few), and ultimately figured it out.

Now, I’ll show you the appropriate approach to paint over wood that has stains on it. If you’re working on a dresser, kitchen cabinets, trim, or doors, this tutorial will help you avoid the mistakes I made and get a finish you’ll be delighted with. We’ll also talk about the best primer to use when painting over stained wood and what kind of paint to use to make sure the paint stays on.

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Why would you paint over wood that already has stains on it? 

That’s an excellent question. You can be trying to make a room brighter. The stain may not have come out evenly, or it may just look old. You don’t have to buy new furniture or take out perfectly nice cupboards. You can just paint the wood to give it a new, modern look. Painting stained wood white is one of the quickest ways to brighten up a room.

In a bizarre way, painting is also good for your mental health. It’s fantastic to change something with your own hands, especially when it starts to look like you.

Can you paint wood that has been stained? 

Yes, but only if you prepare the right manner. This isn’t the time to take shortcuts (believe me, I tried skipping steps and it didn’t work out well). If you don’t clean up stains effectively, they can hinder paint from sticking and cause it to chip, peel, or change colour.

To make it work, you need to damage that gorgeous surface and utilise the correct bonding chemicals. After that, the paint will stick properly, and the piece will look like it was done by a pro.

If you follow these procedures, you won’t have to guess how to paint over discoloured wood. And if you’re thinking, “Can I use acrylic paint on wood that has stains on it?” Yes, but don’t forget to get ready or prime!

Things You Will Need Make sure you have everything you need before you start. 

Here is the list of things I used to build my dresser:

• A cleaning for grease
• TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) or a microfiber or tack cloth
• You can use Zinsser BIN or Kilz Paint as a primer that clings to or covers up stains.
• Depending on the project, it can be latex or enamel. 
• A paintbrush or a foam roller Old sheets or rags for drops
• Tape for painters
• Use a screwdriver to take out hardware.

Not required, but beneficial:

• Wood filler to fix scratches or other problems 
• Knife for putty 
• Use a small angled brush for accurate detailing.

How to paint over wood that has stains on it step by step 

Step 1: Clean the top

Don’t take this step lightly. Stain is the best way to keep dirt and oil from getting in. I found out the hard way when the primer on one drawer started to come off. Your primer will stick like glue if you clean it well with TSP or a degreaser.

Gently wipe everything down and let it dry all the way.

Step 2: Sand lightly but well

You don’t need to sand all the way down to bare wood; just enough to take away the shine. I used 120-grit to start and then 220-grit to make it smooth. The goal is to give the primer something to hold onto.

After sanding, use a tack cloth or a wet rag to clean up the dust. If you want to paint over stained wood without sanding, look for primers that say “no-sand” or “bonding primers.” Try it out on a tiny area first. 

Step 3: Apply the primer

This is where the magic takes place. A good bonding primer is your best buddy. It makes a strong base for your paint and keeps stains and tannins from getting through.

I used Zinsser BIN primer on my oak furniture. Shellac is the substance. It dried quickly and got rid of the original stain well. Make sure the strokes are even whether you use a brush or roller.

Step 4: Paint Time!

If you want it to dry, follow the maker’s directions. You might need to use it again, especially for really dark stains. Many experts think it’s the greatest primer for painting over wood that has stains. It’s time to paint! Step Four At last! This is the best part. I picked a semi-gloss latex paint because I wanted a surface that was easy to clean and smooth. Most of the time, you only need two coats. Use a brush for narrow spaces and edges. Use a foam roller on flat surfaces.

Before you put on the second coat, make sure the previous one is completely dried. Don’t rush it; I did it once and my drawers were sticky for days. 

Step 5: Optional Sealer 

A topcoat can help your thing last longer, but it depends on how much you use it (like kitchen cabinets versus a side table). Polycrylic is a wonderful choice because it won’t fade with time.

Use a clean brush to put it on and let it dry all the way through. If you want to paint trim or furniture outside, you might want to use a paint and primer combo that is made for exterior usage to cover up wood that has changed colour.

My Blunders, Your Blueprint for Success

1. I didn’t clean since it “looked clean.” Not a good idea. The primer didn’t stick.
2. I sped up the drying time. The second coat lifted the first one off. Peeling that is messy.
3. Used brushes that were cheap. Anger, stripes, and bristles. Get good tools!

These blunders showed me how important each step is and how to be patient. If you take your time, you’ll be OK.

FAQs: Because You’re Not the Only One Wondering

Do I really need to sand? A lot of people want to know. Yes. A little bit of sanding may make a tremendous impact. It makes the surface ready for the primer to stick.

Can I paint wood that has been stained with poly? Yes, however you will need a bonding primer, and you can’t skip sanding.

What if the paint doesn’t cover the mark? Put on another coat of primer that keeps stains from getting through. Adding more paint won’t help.

Should I get rid of obsolete hardware? Yes, if you want it to look neat and professional. It only takes a few more minutes.

Is it possible to do this with spray paint? You can, especially if the goods aren’t too big. Just make sure to clean, sand, and prime the same way every time.

Key Takings: 

• Painting over stained wood might seem intimidating at first, but it’s 100% doable, even for beginners. Armed with the right tools, a little patience, and this guide, you can transform just about any piece into something that feels fresh, personal, and totally you.

• Remember: prep is everything. Respect the process. And don’t forget to step back and admire your work when you’re done.

• Who knows? That one old dresser could be the start of a whole new DIY journey. Maybe even your first project learning how to paint over stained wood.

Additional Resources: 

1. Can You Paint Over Stain? (HGTV): Discover how to properly prep stained wood using cleaning, sanding, and priming. HGTV emphasizes the importance of a stain-blocking primer for long-lasting results.
2. Can You Paint Over Stained Wood? (Family Handyman): This trusted DIY site offers a step-by-step guide covering everything from surface prep to final coat. Learn why sanding and shellac-based primers are key.
3. Can You Paint Over Stain? (Brad the Painter): A professional painter shares his 4-step process for painting over stained wood with ease. Includes specific product recommendations and practical advice.