Asked on Jun 13, 2016

Do I prime or seal thin craft wood before I paint?

Sam
by Sam
I purchased a couple of those cute little birdhouses from Michaels and want to paint them. Do I need to prime or seal the wood before I paint? They are going outside on my porch and will be exposed to rain and sun.
  8 answers
  • Kerry Kerry on Jun 13, 2016
    Always prime bare wood, especially if it's going outdoors. But go get a small sample can of primer and paint in one can. Home Depot or Lowe's has small sample cans (about 3-4 ounces) for around $3. You can pick two or three you like for your birdhouse.
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Jun 13, 2016
    Yes prime, paint and seal for outdoor protection.
  • William William on Jun 13, 2016
    First prime, then paint, then seal. In that order.
  • Pat Pat on Jun 13, 2016
    Definitely prime. It ensures your chosen colors remain true, and keeps the paint you love from seeping in to the wood, thus requiring fewer coats. You can use white primer, or purchase a tube of Gesso. Either will work well.
  • Sam Sam on Jun 14, 2016
    Thank you all for your help. I will prime, paint, and seal.
  • Sam Sam on Jun 14, 2016
    Everyone said the same so I an folloing their advice.
  • Eileen B. Eileen B. on Jun 14, 2016
    If you are using red paint, prime with pink paint.
  • Rebecca Platt Rebecca Platt on Jun 14, 2016
    Ok, I have a different take. If they're not going outside I wouldn't bother with priming unless you have it already👍