There are many reasons other than the grain/aesthetic to want a solid wood desk top, i.e. it’s inherent strength (avoid bowing, camera/monitor clamps), custom size/shaping or even avoiding plastic alternatives. In these cases, painting the top might be an option you are considering.
This post considers what wood to use, how tops are painted, the colours available, how paint finish pricing compares, finally how best to look after it.
Read our related posts:
1) What is a solid wood finish? Which finish is best for your desk/table top?
2) How to water proof a solid wood desk: polyurethane, lacquer, OSMO, wax & oil finishes
Wood choice
While all wood can be painted, not all wood should be. Pine is generally recommended because it’s cost-effective and the paint adheres well. Hardwoods like walnut or oak are more expensive due to their grain, and painting them might not be cost-effective. Additionally, the hardness of the paint won’t exceed that of pine, so any damage to the paint would likely damage the wood as well.
In short, if you want to paint solid wood, paint pine.
Methods for painting a solid wood desk top
Painting a desk top with a brush is one option. A good outcome depends on the viscosity of the paint, the quality of the brush, and the skill of the painter. It is very easy to leave brush marks, and even easier to leave paint runs.
The other option is to spray the paint on. This also comes with difficulties: not all paint is compatible with a spray gun, a spray paint booth is recommended, the skill of the painter is still a factor, and of course there is always the inevitable risk of paint runs! Painting with a spray gun is generally still the option chosen by most workshops, it does provide a superior result most of the time.
Both methods require multiple coats, with drying time in between.
Taste the rainbow!
A key advantage of painting a desk top is the unlimited choice of colours and finish. The top can blend in or contrast against the walls and decor. If having absolute control of the desk top is important, then paint is probably the best answer.
It is important to note, not every paint and finish is suitable for painting a desk top. Matte/chalk paints can get grubby over time when mixed with the oils from skin, and being able to glide a mouse over the top is something many people rate highly when considering their desk top finishes.
Price comparison
Painting is the most expensive finish option, due to the extra time and equipment required to apply the multiple coats. If a unique colour or finish is required, the paint may also need to be separately sourced.
How to look after a painted desk top?
Prevention is better than the cure: keep the top regularly cleaned a soft, nearly dry, micro fibre cloth to avoid a build up of dust or grime. Also use coasters and mats as well as avoiding things that could stab into the paint layer. Most paint comes with UV protection, but direct sunlight can still cause fading over many years. Finally, ensuring the top isn’t exposed to extremes in temperature or humidity is good advice for any solid wood furniture.
You can request a touch up pot from the workshop, should something fall on the desk and chip away some paint, the area can be quickly restored.
Paint chips and spot repairs
While paint may show signs of wear over time, with proper care, a painted desk top can last many years. For spot repairs, knowing the exact paint used allows for easy touch-ups, ensuring your desk remains in top condition
Options for repairing a painted top are also limited, spot repairs can be difficult if sanding is required, but it is possible to ask the workshop exactly what paint is being used to have a pot spare.
Commission your Solid Wood Desk Top desk top today
If you are sure about the size you want for your desk top, now is the right time to place an order for your solid oak, pine or walnut desk top. View our full range of compatible tops here.
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