- 1). Determine the condition of the bookcase and make any needed repairs. Evaluate all parts of the bookcase including broken shelves or fixtures. Check for loose nails and sand down damaged spots to even out inconsistencies or chips of old paint.
- 2). Prepare a workspace. If you are working indoors, move your furniture and other belongings to create space for you to work, and have an area set aside for your supplies. Use drop cloth to protect the floors, and use painters tape to protect walls from paintbrush strokes.
- 3). Wash down the bookcase with a damp cloth to remove dirty and other impurities. If you are painting, use a damp cloth. If you are staining your bookcase, wipe it down with a dry cloth.
- 4). Sand the bookcase. If you are staining a bookcase, you will need to sand off all of the previous treatments like color or varnish. If you are painting a bookcase, primer will cover previous treatments, so you do not need to sand the entire bookcase.
- 5). Prime the bookcase with the appropriate pre-treatment. For wood stains, use a pre-conditioner before applying the stain. If you are painting the bookcase, use the appropriate primer to prep for painting. Oil-based paints need an oil-based primer and a latex paint needs a latex-based primer.
- 6). Paint or stain the bookcase using quality brushes. Quality brushes give a better look to your projects and you will not have to worry about loose hairs in your fresh paint. Use long, even strokes when applying a wood stain or paint. Be sure to apply treatment to edges and challenging areas, such as decorative imprints first.
- 7). Polish and decorate your bookcase. Varnish offers superior shine and offers a coat of protection. Decorate your bookcase any way you choose, such as using stencils and fine paint brushes.
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