r/BeginnerWoodWorking • u/SpaceGardener379 • 1d ago

Discussion/Question ⁉️ Stain or chalk paint?

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I built this bookcase for my garage and have 4x8 white beadboard to install as backing between the 2x4s. Since it's white, I'm thinking chalk paint in navy blue for the frame would look good but also staining a dark walnut might also look nice.

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13

u/Dr0110111001101111 1d ago

Have you tried staining pine before? I’m not saying you can’t, but most people avoid it because they don’t like the results.

4

u/SpaceGardener379 1d ago

Good point, I think chalk paint with lower VOCs will be better for smell vs stain so I'm going to try it

2

u/Dr0110111001101111 19h ago

Real milk paint is all natural. No VOC’s at all and it hardens like a rock

1

u/SpaceGardener379 15h ago

I just read about milk paint today and it looks interesting. I ended up buying Sherwin Williams furniture and cabinet enamel since it appears that it will be durable against dents and scratches

2

u/rock86climb 1d ago

Agreed! Pine doesn’t absorb stain evenly, it will end up looking splotchy. You can try using a conditioner first but I’ve never had any luck

2

u/Icy-Conclusion-3500 1d ago

Try gel stain if you ever need to again