Reply To: Painting a bookcase
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aang….,
This will probably elicit lots of strong opinions, so here’s mine.
1. Sand with the 150 grit, vac and tack rag the surface.
2. Sand with the 220 grit, vac and tack rag.
3. Skip the Shellac
4. Both the primer and paint are going to be too viscous to use directly from the can.
5. Thin both with the solvent listed for cleanup (probably Mineral Spirits).
6. Buy a high quality white china bristle 1 1/2 inch angled sash brush.
7. Using a couple of boards prepared in the same fashion as the bookcase, test the brush out and leveling as you progressively thin the primer and paint. You want the “Goldilocks” viscosity, easy to flow out evenly without drag and self leveling but not “runny”.
8. Prime the bookcase and allow the primer to THOROUGHLY dry, then sand with the 220 grit, vac and tack rag.
9. Apply the finish coat.
Penetrol will extend the wet edge time some. Your choice.
Important:!! Provide positive air flow and exhaust for the solvent vapors. Eliminate all sources of ignition etc. etc.
The keys here are a high quality brush, proper viscosity and a practiced “touch”.
A roller will work for large areas but you’ll end up with a rippled surface.
Hope this is somewhat helpful.
When you’re done—We all like pictures.
Best,
Craig