How to Paint Over Polyurethane Stain and Faux Paint

Painting Over Polyurethane Stain

• 1

  Clean the surface with a rag and surface cleaner that contains trisodium phosphate. Pour a small amount of cleaner onto the rag and wipe liberally across the entire surface. Remove all grease, dirt or other build-up from on the item you're painting.

• 2

  Sand the polyurethane surface using fine to medium grade sandpaper. Scrub the surface of the item you're painting with the sandpaper until the polyurethane finish is dull. It's not necessary to make deep scratches into the glossy surface. If the surface area is large, consider using an electric sander.

• 3

  Paint the surface using an oil-based primer. Using painting supplies such as brushes and rollers, cover the entire surface with the primer and allow it to dry completely. Some manufacturers suggest applying two coats of primer. See primer directions for more specific detail.

• 4

  Sand the primer with a fine-grit sandpaper. Look for spots with brush strokes or drips and eliminate them using the sandpaper before moving onto the next step.

• 5

  Paint the surface of your item using either oil or acrylic paint. Once the polyurethane has been sanded and primed, either oil or acrylic will stick to the surface. Use brushes and rollers to apply the paint of your choice to the surface.

Painting Over Faux Paint

• 6

  Determine if you need to prime the surface. If you're painting over a water-based paint with another water-based paint, then you might not need to prime the surface. However, if you're painting over an oil-based paint with a water-based or vice versa, then you'll need to prime the area. Additionally, if the color seems as if it will bleed through, it might behoove you to add a layer of primer which saves you from applying extra coats of paint later on.

• 7

  Sand the area using an electric sander with fine to medium grade sandpaper. Faux paint is common on areas such as walls. Therefore, because the area is large, you'll save time and energy using an electric sander rather than sanding by hand. Look for any raised areas, drips or rough spots which need attention and sand until they are smooth.

• 8

  Apply primer to the surface using paint brushes and rollers. The primer should complement the type of paint you are covering and the type of paint you'll be adding. For example, use a water-based primer over water-based paint if you'll be adding a water-based layer over the primer. See the side panel of the can of primer for specific instructions. Allow primer to completely dry before moving on to the next step.

• 9

  Paint the surface using rollers and paint brushes. Add a coat of paint over the primer. Depending on the type of paint and color, you may need multiple coats to complete the job.