How to Cover Knotty Pine Knots Painted With Latex Paint

Some view the knots in knotty pine boards as flaws, while others see them as part of the wood's rustic appeal. Even those who enjoy the organic look may not find painted-over knots aesthetically pleasing. Paint tends to seep into the small cracks and crevices that form the knots, making them stand out. Additionally, resins in the wood seep out through the knots, interfering with the paint's ability to stick. Preparing the wood properly before repainting it helps the knots to blend in better with the surrounding wood.

220-grit sandpaper
Orbital sander (optional)
Tack cloth
Wood filler
Putty knife
Stain-blocking primer
Latex paint
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Lightly sand the pine until smooth with medium-grit sandpaper by hand or with an orbital sander.
- 2
  Wipe the sanded particles away with a tack cloth.
- 3
  Scoop out wood filler with the tip of the putty knife. Apply it to the cracks and crevices in the knots, overfilling the area slightly. Wood filler tends to shrink as it dries. Allow the filler to dry as recommended by the manufacturer.
- 4
  Sand the area smooth after the wood filler dries, then wipe it down with a tack cloth.
- 5
  Paint the wood with a high-quality stain-blocking primer. The wood filler and primer help to seal the wood, preventing resin seepage.
- 6
  Repaint the wood with one to two coats of latex paint.

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