How to Paint Over Sealant or Shellac
- 1). Paint a thick coat of chemical paint remover on the area you intend to paint. Use an old paint brush---you'll have to thrown it away after using it with paint stripper. Let the chemicals penetrate the topcoat. This usually takes 20 to 30 minutes.
- 2). Test to see if the paint stripper has begun working. Use a scraper or steel wool on a portion of the surface. If the shiny topcoat can be scraped away, the chemicals have worked.
- 3). Use steel wool or a scraper to remove all the shellac or sealant from the surface. Keep an old rag handy to clean residue from the scraper regularly.
- 4). Use a damp sponge to remove any remaining paint stripper. Rinse your sponge often. Allow the surface to dry completely.
- 5). Sand the surface of the area using medium grit sand paper. Sanding removes any remaining chemicals and creates texture that will let the paint adhere.
- 6). Apply paint using a good quality paint brush. Brush on two to three thin coats of paint for the most durable finish. Allow each coat to dry before applying another.
- 7). Brush on a clear coat of polyurethane to further protect the painted surface from chips and nicks. Polyurethane comes in matte, satin, and gloss finishes. Choose one you prefer.