How do I paint old pine paneling walls that have been shellacked?

Hi Rhoda, a really good primer would do it. The one that came to mind is called BIN primer by Zinsser. Its recommended and used by professionals for stain blocking. After two coats of that you should be able to paint your walls any color you like :)

There are a couple of good primers out there. Don't skip that step.

You need to wash them down with TSP and then sand to get the rest of sheen off. Prime with a stain blocker that has alcohol in it (as does shellac) like Kilz. If not smooth, may need to lightly sand. Since it's wood, I would use semi gloss Oil based paint for a prof look and durability.

Definitely get a good primer. If you talk to the folks at the paint counter in your local hardware store and let them know what you're up to, they should be able to point you in the right direction.

Hello Rhoda,

Primer and paint.

We have a log cabin and too much wood is dark and dreary.

We are quite pleased the previous homeowner placed paneling in two bedrooms and painted it a light color. I would suggest not to hesitare to your paint paneling for a room brightening update.

I think you’ll be really pleased with your results. Best wishes in your painting adventure! Heres helpful links!

https://www.hgtv.com/design/decorating/design-101/painting-wood-paneling

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=ifkbVlE9yyE#

Prime your walls and use a good chalk paint with a sealer. I recommend Fusion Mineral paint. Painted paneling looks very trendy right now, I'm sure it will look beautiful!