Horizontal surfaces have a huge visual impact. Use whitewashed timber to create a practical working surface that adds loads of character to your kitchen.
Words and photography Sarah Heeringa



You will need
- Timber surface, sanded smooth
- Gloves, soft cloth or old sock
- Various paint brushes
- 1 litre of waterborne Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss waterborne enamel in a colour of your choice. We used Resene Black White from the Resene Whites & Neutrals chart
Sealer options to choose from
- Resene Aquaclear Waterborne Urethane Varnish satin is an Environmental Choice-approved waterborne alternative. It’s easy to apply, dries clear and creates a sealed workable surface
- For a really hardwearing surface, use Resene Qristal Clear Polyurethane Poly-Flat. (Be aware that it dries with a slight yellow tinge., and as a turps-thinned product, it’s rather smelly to apply!)
Step one
Ensure your timber surface is clean and smooth
Step two
Lightly paint one area using a little paint and fast-sweeping strokes following the line of the wood grain. Feather the paint edges, so when you move to the next areas you can blend the paint together smoothly.
Step three
Rub over the painted areas using a dry paintbrush, an old sock over your hand or a damp cloth for a softer, more even effect. Work fast over the surface as the paint will soak in quickly. If one part has too much paint, remove some of it using a pot-scouting cloth and a little water. Once you have achieved the effect you want, move to the next unpainted area.
Step four
Once the surface is fully dry, apply several coats of your chosen sealer, per the product instructions.
For more Resene makeovers, click here Call 0800 Resene 737 363 or visit www.resene.co.nz