How to Paint Untreated Wood and Raw Wood Cabinets

Painting untreated wood—whether it’s bare wood furniture, raw trim, or unfinished cabinets—takes more than just a brush and a can of paint. Since bare wood absorbs paint quickly, it needs proper prep work to get smooth, lasting results. In this post, we’ll show you how to paint untreated wood step by step, explain whether you need a primer, and cover the best ways to handle projects like painting raw wood cabinets. If you’re working with raw or unfinished wood for the first time, these tips will help you do it right from the beginning.

How to Paint Untreated Wood

Painting untreated wood is more challenging than painting pre-finished or previously painted wood. Raw wood absorbs more paint, meaning you’ll need more coats and more time. However, painting bare wood also gives you a chance to create a flawless finish from the start—no flaking paint or uneven surfaces to worry about.

Can You Paint on Untreated Wood?

Yes, you can paint untreated wood. But painting raw or unfinished wood requires a different approach than painting sealed or treated wood. Since bare wood can absorb paint unevenly and may have dust or splinters, proper prep work is essential for a smooth, durable finish.

Do You Need to Prime Untreated Wood Before Painting?

Yes, we highly recommend priming untreated wood before painting. Applying primer fills the pores in bare wood, prevents excessive paint soak-in, and allows the paint to stick more evenly and last longer. If you don’t have a primer on hand, you can thin your first coat of paint by about 15% and follow up with full-strength coats. “You might also like this post: Do you need to prime before painting?

Can You Paint Directly Onto Bare Wood?

Technically, yes—you can paint directly onto raw wood. But it’s not the best practice. Unprimed bare wood will soak up more paint, which increases cost and effort. However, if you’re working with a small piece and don’t have primer, thinned paint might do the job in a pinch.

What Is the Best Paint for Bare Wood?

Almost any type of paint will work on bare wood if the surface is properly prepared. Acrylic paint, latex paint, oil-based paint, and even lacquer paints can all be used. In fact, bare wood offers one of the best surfaces for paint to bond to.

How to Prepare Unfinished Wood for Painting

1. Remove any large splinters with a utility knife.
2. Smooth raw wood by sanding it with 200-grit sandpaper—this helps create an even surface for paint to adhere properly.
3. Apply 1–2 coats of primer. Tip: If you don’t have primer, thin the first coat of paint with about 15% water for better absorption.

How to Paint Raw Wood Cabinets (Using Acrylic Paint)

1. Check the surface for any rough areas or splinters—even if the cabinets seem smooth.
2. If needed, lightly sand the bare wood with 200–220 grit sandpaper to improve paint adhesion and smooth the surface.
3. Wipe away dust with a damp cloth.
4. Apply two coats of primer to the raw wood, allowing about 4 hours of drying time between each coat for best results. This helps prevent over-absorption and ensures better paint adhesion.
5. Let the last layer of primer dry on the raw wood for at least 4 hours to ensure a smooth and even paint application.
6. Apply two coats of acrylic paint to the untreated wood, waiting about 5 hours between each coat for proper drying and coverage.
7. For added protection and durability, apply a water-based polyurethane sealer. It works especially well with acrylic paint.

What You’ll Need

• 200 or 220 grit sandpaper
• Small foam roller (short nap)
• 3-inch angled brush
• Damp cloth or tack cloth
• Primer (recommended)
• Acrylic paint
• Water-based polyurethane (optional, for sealing)
• Paint tray and stir sticks

Additional Tips

• Seal outdoor bare wood after painting. If you’re painting untreated wood that will be exposed to the elements, apply a clear sealer or varnish afterward to prevent the paint from deteriorating quickly.
• Softwoods absorb more paint. To reduce over-absorption, apply multiple coats of primer instead of relying on paint alone.
• Don’t skip cleaning after sanding. Paint won’t adhere properly if there’s leftover sanding dust on the surface. Always wipe it down with a damp cloth or tack cloth.
• Use a thin, water-based primer. It penetrates bare wood better and creates a smoother base for paint.
• Allow at least 5 hours between coats. This applies to both primer and paint. Proper drying time is essential for good adhesion and a lasting finish. You might also like this post: How to paint particle board.