How do I make milk paint to use on my kitchen table makover?

Stella Cade
by Stella Cade

Kitchen oak table has a milky looking finish that doesn't completely cover the oak. However it is worn in some areas and I would like to clean and repair it. How can I do this?

  5 answers
  • Joann Gonnella Cope Joann Gonnella Cope on Nov 08, 2018

    are you thinking of just a white wash look? if you don't need a lot, get a sample size from your home improvement store,( make sure it is a latex, not an oil base paint) pour the paint into a clean can, or plastic cup and gradually add water. test it on the wood, if it is too heavy or dark use a wet rag and wipe it off right away, add more water and try again until you get the look you want. when you are finished, you could apply a coat of water base poly to preserve the finish.


  • Rose Broadway Rose Broadway on Nov 08, 2018

    Stella, here are several tutorials that may help you. Happy painting!


    https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=homemade+milk+paint

  • It sounds like you need to remove the old finish. Sanding is the best way to do that. Use a powerful hand sander and start with 80 grit sandpaper. I work in sections to make it not seem as tedious. Once all the stain is gone, move on to 120 grit sand paper and sand the whole table. Then do the same with 220 grit. This helps make the table super smooth to the touch. It will also help you stain look better.

    Clean it well and apply your stain. It might need 2 coats. Wipe away the excess. Once it has dried, it needs a top coat. Sand lightly by hand between coats. I use 400 grit sand paper for this.


    It sounds like a lot of work, but it goes pretty quickly and it's worth it.

  • Fiddledd224 Fiddledd224 on Nov 14, 2018

    Take a good photo to the paint department of the home improvement store and ask them what will work for you. They have the best selection, the most up-to-date materials and most important, the most informative sales staff to get you what you need for a professional job.

  • Hi Stella! I can tell you how to paint your kitchen table with Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint! :)



    It is super easy to paint with Dixie Belle:



    Step one: Clean with White Lightning


    Step two: Paint one to two coats of Dixie Belle Chalk Mineral Paint


    Step three: Use Gator Hide for a water resistant and durable finish




    Also, we did have a series of LIVE videos on a step by step tutorial of how to paint your kitchen cabinets, which uses a similar process. If you would like to watch them....



    Day one: https://www.facebook.com/DixieBellePaint/videos/1609328872527961/


    Day two: https://www.facebook.com/DixieBellePaint/videos/1610860225708159/


    Day three: https://www.facebook.com/DixieBellePaint/videos/1612437375550444/


    Day four: https://www.facebook.com/DixieBellePaint/videos/1615506548576860/




    If you ever need help or have any questions you can feel free to call us at 813-909-1962 during business hours. We have a full staff here eager to help you!


    We have an awesome group on FB that gives you all kinds of help if you are interested. click here to join: https://www.facebook.com/groups/FriendsWhoLikeDixieBellePaint/