Ultimate guide + video tutorials on how to whitewash wood & create beautiful whitewashed floors, walls and furniture using pine, pallet or reclaimed wood.

TECHNIQUE 1: HOW TO WHITEWASH PINE WOOD OR OTHER SMOOTH FINISH WOOD USING A RAG

This is the easiest way to white wash wood, and the most commonly used. It is good for all types of wood, and easy to do on both floors and walls.

Many types of wood we get from hardware stores have a smooth finish surface, for example: 2x4s, common boards, plywood, etc.

This whitewashing method is good for smooth and textured wood. It creates a clean, refreshing and bright look, great for modern, farmhouse, or Scandinavian style. The whitewashed wood plank wall in the photo at top ( source) from a modern farmhouse bathroom is a great example.

The beauty of white wash vs white paint is that the wood grain shows through and adds a richness to the finished piece.

First dilute the white paint to a consistency of heavy cream. Dip a rag  into the paint and wipe it onto the wood surface.

Use it as a white wash stain. Repeat with another 1-2 layers if you want it to look more white. Let dry between layers.

You can also use a paint brush. I like the rag because it creates a very even whitewash stain without leaving brush strokes.

Update: I just put together 30 great examples of my favorite Pallet Wall and Shiplap Wall tutorials and inspirations you can check out here!

30 favorite Pallet Wall and Shiplap Wall tutorials and inspirations.

TECHNIQUE 2: HOW TO WHITE WASH RECLAIMED WOOD IN ONE EASY STEP USING A SCRAPER

This method is incredibly fun! It works best on wood with lots of surface textures, such as reclaimed fence wood. Use this method when you want to create a rustic and aged look such as a plank wall made with old barn wood.

Clean the wood with soapy water and a brush. Let dry.

The Decoart Americana Outdoor Living Picket Fence White paint is the perfect consistency for this technique. If your paint is too thick, dilute the paint to a consistency of crepe batter.

Now the fun part: pour paint onto the wood surface. Take a scraper and scrape the paint along the wood grain.

Some paints will be soaked into the grooves. Let dry and we have a piece of rustic white washed wood!