MDF bookcase

A simple MDF bookcase can be transformed into an elegant piece of furniture using Resene Waterborne Colorwood woodstain.

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Ways with wood with Mark Rayner - Project 32

Difficulty level: Moderate

You will need: a MDF bookshelf, clean lint-free cloth, damp cloth, latex glove, paintbrush, paint stirrer and sandpaper. Resene Aquaclear satin and Resene Waterborne Colorwood tinted to Resene Rosewood and Resene Tabasco.

To get the look: Mark painted the background wall with Resene SpaceCote Flat tinted to Resene Bermuda Grey and the skirting board with Resene Enamacryl tinted to Resene Alabaster.

Other ideas: For a really colourful effect try a combination of Resene Waterborne Colorwood in Resene Candlelight and Resene Hibiscus.

Step one
Lightly sand the bookcase and wipe off any sanding dust with slightly damp cloth. Allow to dry.

Step two
Carefully stir the Resene Waterborne Colorwood with a paint stirrer.

Step three
Apply one coat of Resene Tabasco to the inner shelves, back and inner sides of the bookcase, brushing evenly and in one direction.

Step four
Leave the Resene Waterborne Colorwood to soak into the MDF for up to 15 minutes and then wipe off any excess Resene Waterborne Colorwood with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Step five
Carefully apply one coat of Resene Rosewood to the front edges of each shelf, as shown.

Step six
Apply one coat of Resene Rosewood to the outer sides, top and back of the bookcase, again, brushing evenly and in one direction.

Step seven
Leave the Resene Waterborne Colorwood to soak into the MDF for up to 15 minutes and then wipe off any excess Waterborne Resene Colorwood with a clean, lint-free cloth. Leave the bookcase to dry for 48 hours.