To prepare waxed furniture for painting, you need to thoroughly clean and sand the surface to ensure proper paint adhesion.
Painting over waxed furniture requires specific preparation steps to remove the wax barrier and create a surface that the paint can adhere to effectively. Wax acts as a sealant, repelling liquids like paint, so it must be removed before painting.
The process involves cleaning and sanding, as outlined in the guide "Preparing the Furniture for Paint."
Here are the key steps:
1. Clean Thoroughly
The first crucial step is to remove all residual wax and dirt from the furniture surface.
- Use a degreasing cleaner: A product like Fusion TSP (Trisodium Phosphate) is recommended for its ability to cut through grease and wax effectively.
- Apply the cleaner: Follow the cleaner's instructions, often involving wiping down the entire surface. Pay extra attention to areas where wax might have built up.
- Ensure wax removal: Cleaning is vital because any leftover wax will prevent paint from sticking properly, leading to peeling or poor coverage.
2. Allow to Dry Completely
After cleaning, it is essential to let the piece of furniture dry thoroughly.
- Patience is key: Allow ample time for the surface to dry. Residual moisture can also interfere with paint adhesion.
- Check all areas: Ensure corners, crevices, and any detailed areas are completely dry before moving to the next step.
3. Sand the Surface
Sanding is necessary to create a profile on the surface that the paint can grip onto.
- Use medium-grit sandpaper: Sand the furniture using sandpaper with a medium grit.
- Key the surface: The purpose of sanding is to "key" the surface, creating tiny scratches or abrasions.
- Enhance adhesion: This keyed surface provides the necessary texture for the paint to adhere better than it would on a smooth, waxed surface.
By following these steps — thoroughly cleaning with a degreasing cleaner, allowing complete drying, and sanding with medium-grit sandpaper — you create the best possible base for successful paint application on previously waxed furniture.
