How to Do Washed Oak Cabinets

The term "washed oak cabinet" refers to an oak cabinet that has been covered with a coat of thinned paint to give the cabinet a subtle tint while allowing the natural grain of the wood to show through. The most common color used is white, as in white-washed cabinets, but you can use any color you choose or even apply a wash over a solid coat of paint to cover the wood grain and create a dramatic paint effect.

Sandpaper
White vinegar
Water
Latex paint
Paintbrush
Rag
Polyurethane clear coat

Instructions

- 1
  Sand the oak cabinets with 200-grit sandpaper. This will roughen the surface slightly and help the paint adhere to the wood.
- 2
  Mix equal amounts of white vinegar and water in a small container. Apply this mixture to the cabinets with a rag to clean the cabinets and remove any greasy residue that may have accumulated over time.
- 3
  Thin any color of latex paint by mixing three-parts paint and one-part water.
- 4
  Brush the thinned paint onto the exterior of the cabinets with a 6-inch stain brush. The brush strokes do not have to be perfect, just cover the cabinets with paint.
- 5
  Take a clean rag and wipe the wet painted cabinets from the top to the bottom. This will remove brush strokes and some of the paint so that the natural oak shows.
- 6
  Repeat applying and wiping the thinned paint until you have reached the desired level of coverage.
- 7
  Apply two coats of water-based polyurethane clear coat to protect the paint and give the cabinets a shiny finish.

How to Restore a Retro Dinette Set

How to Decorate a Kitchen Hutch

Kitchen Furniture