Baby Cradle Refinishing?
Question:I have an old baby cradle that has a lot of deep scratches in the wood (generations old). What do you suggest I do to refinish it? IE what unisex color paint, does it need primer, what grain of sand, etc. Thanks!
Answers:
If it is an old crib and hasn't been painted in years, your first concern should be whether the existing paint is lead based, as most old paint was. This should be COMPLETELY removed and sanded as it is highly toxic. Use a heavier grade to start, ending with a fine grade to smooth it off. This should also even out the scratches.
If you are going to paint it, prime it first and then use a paint recommended for "doors, trims and millwork" or any other harder finish paint ( ask your paint dealer for guidance ). Again make sure it is non toxic, tell your retailer what it is being used on. As far as colour, I would keep it softer and understated, such as ivory or pale hues of green blue or yellow, etc. Anything to vibrant or garish would take away from it's antique character. You could also look into antiquing or "crackling" your paint finish, but again make sure these compounds are safe. If you were thinking of a stain, look into a milk - wash stain ( a whitish toned pastel stain ) again in a softer shade. Don't be too concerned with "gender neutral". Our ancestors weren't too hung up on the pink vs blue thing! Remember it's an heirloom handed down to both boys and girls. You don't need it repainted every time.
I'd probably just give it a pale green, yellow or blue light painting and then rub some of the paint off to keep with the rustic, loved by many babies, look to it.
Otherwise, you are in for lots of work! Use a fine grit sandpaper to remove the old finish, paint with a good primer, then paint. I like creamy, soft pastel colors for baby furniture. You could even find some old story books and cut out and decoupage the pictures onto the head and foot board part, like kitties or lambs or bunnies!
Have fun with your project!
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