I’m building a small table and would like to paint it black. The top is planned to be plywood and the skirt and legs are planned to be poplar, although that could change if it needs to. My problem is that no matter what I try, I get unacceptable brush marks. The processes I have tried so far are:
2 coats of primer with sanding in between
2 coats of Rust-Oleum American Accents Smooth Gloss Finish Latex Paint
2 coats of oil based primer with sanding in between
2 coats of Sherwin Williams Gloss Black oil based enamel
I also tried adding something called Extend to the latex paint. This is supposed to reduce brush marks. It didn’t seem to help. I haven’t tried thinning the paint, but I thought I would try that next.
Has anyone had good results with painting a table top black, and if so, what is the secret?
Replies
The oil based enamel--Sherwin Williams Pro Classic is a good brand, should level, but you absolutely do need to thin it. (With oil based finishes the label may say not to thin but that is wrong--most all of them do need thinning. Think about adding about 10% thinner. Yes, use a primer, and make sure that you examine the surface very critically with low angle light to discover any blemishes in the surface. Add MORE LIGHT. If you are over 40 add A LOT more light.
You may find that using a smallish (4" ) roller, either with very short nap or a foam, may help with eliminating brush marks. I usually prefer to use a good natural bristle brush (not a foam brush). Part is technique. First, you need to apply the enamel, spreading it to a thin coat, and then "tip off" the surface, with a nearly dry brush held almost vertically and run very lightly over the surface to remove any defects or brush marks and ensure an even coating. You need to sand (with 320 grit) between each coat.
Jean,
You are attempting one of the hardest finishing jobs in the business. Gloss black is totally nonforgiving, it shows ever little imperfection ,including brush, marks that exist. It takes professionals days to finish a piano and they are using spray lacquer. Without spraying, your best bet is to follow Steve's advice. If I had to brush gloss black that is the procedure I would follow. Surface preparation is critical on this application.
Thanks for the insight. As I don't absolutely require a painted gloss finish for this particular project, I think I will be proceed with plan B - dye/stain and a good clear finish.
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