How Do You Paint Over Stained Wood Trim?
Painting wood trim that has been previously stained is all about proper preparation. The problem isn’t the actually stain, but the varnish or other gloss that almost certainly has been put over the stain as a sealant, which will prevent your paint from adhering properly. The solution is to deep-clean the wood, dull the existing surface, then lay a base of flat sealing primer before painting. Trim is generally painted in high gloss, which means you should lightly sand between coats for better adhesion. Put on your rubber gloves. In a bucket, mix 1/2 cup TSP with a gallon of warm water. Thoroughly scrub the woodwork with a scrub brush. Rinse it with a sponge and clean water. Let it dry completely. Sand the surface of the trim with 120-grit sandpaper, folding the paper around the contours of the trim and using quick, short strokes. Dull the whole surface of any gloss or shine. Wipe off the dust with a dry cloth. Set painter’s tape around the borders of the trim, protecting the wall, floor
