Glossing Pine - What Paint to Use

[Mowbray]

Hi Guys,

I'd like some advice on which is the best paint to use to gloss a Pine cupboard and would it be best to prime it first? 

Thanks in advance

[Clanad]

I see you've not received an answer yet, so let me try... Being from the U.S., forgive me if I'm not quite sure what you mean by "gloss".  If you wish to paint pine cupboards that have been previously covered with a clear type of finish, such as polyurethane then you should, at least, go over them lightly with a fine grit sandpaper (180 to 220 grit).  Always sand with the grain, to avoid scratching.  After de-glossing the existing finish, use a primer especially made for this application available from your DIY store.  After at least 2 thin coats of primer, apply the paint you've selected... again in multiple thin coats to avoid brush marks.  Regardless of the color you select, in my opinion a semi-gloss or satin finish will be more attractive than high gloss.  I believe you'll get the best results from acrylic primers and latex paints. They usually have much less odor as well...  Just be sure to use multiple thin coats allowing drying between to avoid brush marks.  (I'd use a finish quality 2 ot 2 1/2 inch brush).  Best of Luck!

[Mowbray]

Thanks very much Clanad I'll try what you advised. 

Which part of the U.S are you from?

[Clanad]

Good luck with the project Mowbray... I live on the family ranch in the western U.S...

[Mowbray]

Thats cool!  Do you have animals like horses and that?

Or is that the wild west i am thinking of?

[Clanad]

Yes, it's a working ranch, although the larger part is leased out to a company, we retain the original homestead.  I've actually been a pilot for most of my adult life and lived over different parts of the world, but always drawn home.  It's about as wild west as you can get these days...still have horses, lots of chickens and still run a few head of cows... typical for the area.  Closest neighbor is about 2 miles...