How to restore Bentwood rocker chair?

Question

I have sanded and paint stripped this formerly white bentwood to within an inch of its life. There are so many nooks and crannies it was an impossible task!

Might there be a way to white wash it to keep some of the timber grain without completely painting over it again?

Noting some difference in wood types.

Thank you!

JacobZ · Answer

Hi @FairBowerbird,

At this point, I would just give it another gentle sand with a fine grit sandpaper, such as 240-grit, then brush it down to remove any sawdust.

You can then apply some Feast Watson Timber Primer before applying your liming white.

There is no need to hydrate the wood or apply oil prior to staining, but a coat of primer can help to even out the surface and improve adhesion of your stain.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob

FairBowerbird · Answer

Thank you so much, I so appreciate your considered feedback

. I have done the wood wash and pressure wash per the guidance. The wood is now quite dry and flaky. It certainly needs another sand ahead of painting since the wood prep but should I hydrate the wood in some way ahead of this to prevent anymore cracking/flaking, maybe some oil?

Thank you in advance!

MitchellMc · Answer

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @FairBowerbird. It's wonderful to have you join us and many thanks for your question on furniture restoration.

You could definitely whitewash the rocker using something like Feast Watson 500ml Liming White Stain (or this Feast Watson 250ml Liming White Satin Stain & Varnish) if you wanted an included protective varnish), which works well for blending in the residual white paint that’s difficult to remove completely. Applying it over the current surface should give a nice effect while still letting some of the timber grain show through.

The actual timber on the frame, has aged and greyed over time. You could continue sanding to bring it back to fresh timber, but a more effective approach I’d recommend is using Feast Watson WoodPrep. I’ve used it on similarly greyed furniture, and it works really well. After a couple of applications, it can restore the timber to an almost brand-new appearance.

Using the timber restorer will also help bring the different timber areas more in line with each other, giving the rocker a much crisper and more uniform look before you apply the Liming White or any other finish.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell