How do you change wood to white?

You can change wood to white by applying a whitewash, which is essentially diluted white paint.

Whitewashing Wood: A Simple Guide

Whitewashing is a straightforward method to give wood a white appearance while allowing the wood grain to remain visible. Here's how you can do it:

Materials Needed

• White paint (any type)
• Water
• Mixing container
• Paint brush or cloth
• Sandpaper (optional, for surface prep)

Steps to Whitewash Wood

1. Prepare the wood: Ensure the wood is clean and dry. Sand it down if needed for a smoother surface.
2. Mix the whitewash: The reference states, you can dilute white paint with water. You can adjust the paint-to-water ratio for the desired effect:
   • Thick Whitewash: For a more opaque, farmhouse look, mix 2 parts paint to 1 part water.
   • Thin Whitewash: For a subtle, elevated look, use more water to thin out the paint further.
3. Apply the whitewash: Use a brush or cloth to apply the diluted paint to the wood. Work with the grain and apply the mixture evenly.
4. Wipe (Optional): For a more subtle whitewash, wipe off some of the paint with a clean cloth immediately after applying. This lets the wood grain show through better.
5. Dry: Let the whitewash dry completely.
6. Optional Second coat: Apply an additional coat for more coverage and desired effect.

Tips for Whitewashing

• Test the whitewash on a small, inconspicuous area first to make sure you like the effect.
• Apply thin coats, and build up if needed, which will provide more control.
• Use a paint brush to apply the diluted paint mixture along the grain, for a more defined and even finish.

Example Whitewash Ratio

By following these steps, you can effectively transform wood to white using a simple whitewash technique.