One of the questions we are asked most often is, “Can I paint this type of wood?” The answer is almost always yes. Whether you’re transforming an antique oak dresser, updating a pine chest of drawers or giving a tired teak table a new lease of life, Chalk Paint™ is designed to paint on wood with minimal preparation.

Some woods contain oils, tannins or resin that may require an extra step, but most simply need a thorough clean before you begin painting.

How to Paint Pine Furniture

Pine is one of the easiest woods to paint and is one of the most common woods you will find – from vintage wardrobes to modern flat-pack bedroom furniture.

As with all furniture, start by cleaning away dust, grease and old furniture polish. If you’re painting new or knotty pine, it’s worth checking for visible knots, as these can sometimes release resin over time. Sealing the knots with Clear Shellac before painting will prevent discolouration.

Once prepared, paint Chalk Paint directly to the surface. Pine lends itself to both smooth contemporary finishes or distressed country-style looks. Finish with Chalk Paint Wax or Lacquer to protect your work.

How to Paint Oak Furniture

Oak has long been prized for its strength, durability and beautiful grain, making it another common wood used in furniture. From rustic farmhouse tables to elegant antique cabinets, oak takes Chalk Paint beautifully.

In most cases, simply clean the surface with warm water and a little washing-up liquid to remove any grease, polish or wax. Once dry, apply your chosen Chalk Paint colour directly to the wood – there’s usually no need for sanding or priming.

Occasionally, oak’s natural tannins can bleed through lighter paint colours, causing yellow or brown stains to appear. If this happens, allow the paint to dry, apply one or two coats of Clear Shellac to the affected area, then continue painting.

How to Paint Teak Furniture

Teak is naturally rich in oils, which make it incredibly durable and weather-resistant. It’s a popular choice for both indoor and outdoor furniture, but those natural oils can occasionally affect the way Chalk Paint sticks to the surface.

If, after cleaning, you notice the Chalk Paint struggling to adhere or oily patches appearing, apply Clear Shellac before continuing with your painting. This seals the surface without you having to sand the piece first.

Indoor pieces can be finished with Chalk Paint Wax or Lacquer. For outdoor furniture, choose Chalk Paint Lacquer for greater durability and protection.

How to Paint Mahogany Furniture

Mahogany has been associated with fine furniture for centuries thanks to its rich colour and elegant grain. Painting dark old mahogany pieces like a formal dining table or antique chest of drawers can give an old-fashioned piece a new lease of life.

Like oak, mahogany contains natural tannins that may occasionally bleed through pale paint colours. If this happens, simply seal the stained areas with Clear Shellac before applying another coat of paint.

How to Paint Walnut Furniture

Walnut is especially popular in mid-century modern furniture and is known for its rich chocolate-brown colour and striking grain. If you’d like to preserve some of its natural beauty, you could use a diluted wash of Chalk Paint or distress the finish to allow hints of the wood to show through.

As with other hardwoods, walnut can occasionally produce tannin bleed when painted in lighter shades, so keep Clear Shellac on hand if any staining appears.

How to Paint Veneer Furniture

One of the biggest myths in furniture painting is that veneer can’t be painted, but good-quality veneer is an excellent surface for Chalk Paint, provided it is in good condition.

Check that the veneer is firmly attached and not lifting or peeling. If the veneer is damaged, repair it first before beginning your makeover. Give the piece a thorough clean before painting.

How to Paint MDF Furniture

Although MDF (Medium Density Fibreboard) isn’t a natural timber, it’s used a lot in modern furniture, cabinetry and shelving.

Previously painted or factory-finished MDF can usually be cleaned and painted directly with Chalk Paint. If you’re working with raw, unpainted MDF, it’s a good idea to seal the surface first, particularly the cut edges, which are very absorbent. Once sealed, apply Chalk Paint as normal. MDF produces a beautifully smooth painted finish and is ideal for contemporary interiors.

The Beauty of Painting Wood with Chalk Paint

Every piece of wooden furniture tells a story, whether it’s a family heirloom, a charity shop find or a well-loved kitchen cabinet. No matter what type of wood you’re working with, Chalk Paint will help you transform it into something new! Some of the best transformations begin with a piece that others find ugly!