Submitted by tomcass240 t3_11a1mte in DIY
I have a pair of draws for a kitchen cabinet unit I'd like to sell and wanted to fix a small chip in the paintwork first. I brought some wood paint from local hardware store and sanded the chipped area to be painted but the paint just runs off the chip and the paint doesn't stick. Do I need to use primer to get the paint to stick? Sorry for such a noob question.
UpgrayeddSmurphy t1_j9pd0uu wrote
It sounds like you're trying to cover an oil base or maybe polyurethane with an acrylic paint? How was the cabinet finished prior?
Just a guess without a pic, but, yes. More sanding, then primer, then paint. Especially if you're covering poly. It can only save headache later to primer now, regardless if the paint can claims it has primer in it. A good primer is going to penetrate better, and will help tannins bleeding through, discoloring the finish. Ever try to paint an old chest white, only to have funny yellow spots bleed thru later? Prolly old oak, and those are tannins bleeding. Primer will help this immensely.
Sanding can be optional tho. Sometimes stuff is super intricate, and sanding can damage design or inlays. You can use a cabinet deglosser for these spots. Then primer.
Prep is always key in good paint adhesion and coverage. Take the time to do it right. Wipe it down with some mineral spirits after sanding to help pick up any loose stuff left, follow the recommended ventilation guidelines for whatever you're using, and wear your PPE.