Applying Whitewash To Wood

The aged or driftwood effect of white washed wood can be a beautiful asset to your home. Before applying whitewash to wood, however, there are a few things you should consider.

Will the Whitewash Create the Color I Desire?

To start, consider the natural color of the wood you intend to whitewash. For example, pine is quite pale in shades of white and yellow, but it will naturally age to an orange/brown tint. Red aak has a natural pinkish hue, walnut a deep brown and cedar a red. Whitewash will soften  the wood's natural color, but not necessarily whiten the wood.

If possible, create a sample of the work before committing to the overall project. This was, you can ensure that you will achieve the desired color and effect.

Also, the wood you intend to whitewash should be unfinished—not sealed, stained or painted. Whitewashing can still be applied to treated wood, but different methods and materials will be required for good results. This article applies only to unfinished wood.

What Materials are Best Suited for Whitewashing?

The whitewash itself can be made through the thinning the base paint of your choice. Keep in mind that even the color white can be found in many shades and tones, giving you a wide range of choices. Latex based paint is ideal for this purpose, as it is easy to mix and clean up.

When mixing the paint to the desired consistency, be sure to not over-thin the mix. This will cause the pigment to adhere poorly and run off off the wood surface. Usually, is it best to thin the whitewash to the same consistency as dairy cream. Use tap water for easy results.

To apply the whitewash, use soft-bristled brushes, sponge brushes, plastic drops, masking tape and clean cotton (color free) disposable rags.

How Do I Apply Whitewash and Protect the Finish?

Work on a flat surface if possible. However, if the woodwork is installed or hanging vertically, carefully lay out your plastic dropcloths to protect the surrounding areas and provide easy clean-up.

1. Use tape to mask off all areas that require protection from the work. Make sure the wood surface is clean, dust free and evenly dry.
2. Working as large an area as comfortable, use a clean rag to pre-moisten the wood with clean water. It should be damp, not dripping wet. 
3. Apply the whitewash with a sponge brush, working in smooth even strokes, always in the same direction.
4. Whitewash only to within 6 inches of the edge of the pre moistened wood area. This way, you can feather out the whitewash with a dry soft-bristled brush and avoid lap marks as you begin the next area to be worked.
5. Be prepared to repeat this process to deepen the whitewash effect.
6. Always keep the work surface damp to allow a smooth application and consistent depth to the whitewash effect.