How to paint the top slats of a bunk bed?

Question

Hi i do not like the slats of my bunkbed,  and I would like to paint them with a dark colour or even black. Its timber and some of the slats are pretty raw with natural holes (photo). I thought of filling the holes and roughness with "no more gaps" then paint with white primer then paint with the chosen final colour. Any suggestions?

EricL · Answer

Hello @Francomaia

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your bed slats.

In order to improve the finish of your bed slats, I suggest first removing them from the bunk bed and sanding them down with 240grit sandpaper. If you have access to an orbital sander, it will make the sanding process go much faster. I recommend using timber filler such as

https://www.bunnings.com.au/timbermate-250g-pine-wood-filler_p1560693

to fill in the knots and holes in the slats.

In regard to paint, I suggest using

https://www.bunnings.com.au/dulux-1l-1step-prep-primer-sealer-undercoat_p1370232

and your choice of topcoat. My best advice is to allow the slats to fully cure before putting them back into the bunk bed.

Here is a handy step-by-step guide: How To Upcycle Furniture (some of the techniques used are applicable to your project)

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric