Is there a product that will cover up the knot holes in knotty pine should I decide to paint the wood a light color?

– Judy

Hi Judy,

Knots, like those found in knotty pine, can pose a problem when painting, since the resin in them has a tendency to bleed back through the finished surface. To prevent this:

  • Spot prime any knots first with an oil based or pigmented shellac primer that is designed to prevent bleeding.
  • If there are a lot of knots, prime the entire surface to give it a more even texture.
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  • If the boards have been varnished, lightly sand them and wipe off any dust before priming so the primer will adhere well.
  • Apply two coats of a quality interior paint on top of the primer.

More information on primers is available on our website at A Homeowner’s Guide to Paint Primer.

Good luck with your project,


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Danny Lipford

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Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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