- Spread dropcloths in your work area.
- Clean all the surfaces of the cupboards you plan to whitewash with a household cleaner and a cloth.
- Strip off any previous finish or varnish using an appropriate stripping agent.
- Sand the cupboards’ surfaces with a power sander fitted with medium-grit sandpaper.
How do you whitewash stained wood?
The Best Way to Whitewash Wood
- Stain the wood (or leave it raw for a light finish).
- Mix 2 parts white paint (flat latex or matte acrylic both work fine) with 1 part water.
- Brush on the water/paint mixture in the direction of the wood grain.
- Use a clean rag to wipe off the paint in the direction of the wood grain.
How do I make my cabinets look rustic?
Distressed Kitchen Cabinets: How To Distress Your Kitchen
- Remove all of the cabinet hardware.
- Sand the cabinets with a sanding block.
- When all of the sanding is done, clean clean clean.
- Bust out the antiquing glaze.
- Apply a top coat.
- Let the topcoat dry for about 24 hours before you add your hardware.
Can you whitewash over varnished wood?
The good news is that painting over varnished wood is possible using either oil or water-based paints. You can replace the older, darker look with something new, vibrant, or whatever you want, like some cool graffiti art if it’s your style.
