Top 9 Best Paint for Plywood Floor, Cabinets, and Furniture

With lots of woodworking experience and a good eye for quality, I wanted to find the best paint for this material.

I tested nine products to find the best paint for plywood floors, cabinets, and furniture. Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain came out on top.

Ready Seal 520’s outstanding performance was a revelation. But what makes it stand out? In the world of plywood, nuances matter.

I’ll guide you through the fine distinctions and reveal which paint best suits different applications.

This article can help you revive old floors, refresh kitchen cabinets, and make personalized furniture. Keep reading to unlock the secrets of flawless plywood painting.

Our Top Picks

Best Paint for Plywood

1. Best Overall Paint for Plywood Furniture – Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain
2. Best Bang for the Buck – Minwax Wood Finish 227644444
3. Best Water-based Paint for Plywood – Modern Masters 296681 Paint
4. Most Durable Paint for Plywood – Rust-Oleum 1990502 Painter’s Touch
5. Best Glossy Paint for Plywood Floor – Krylon K05648007 COLORmaxx
6. Best Paint for Exterior Plywood – KILZ Over Armor Wood & Concrete Resurfacer
7. Best Washable Paint for Plywood Ceiling – RECOLOR Recycled Interior Latex Paint
8. Best Primer Paint for Plywood – Prestige Exterior Paint and Primer in One
9. Best Enamel Paint for Plywood – Majic Paints 8-1501-4 Diamond Hard Acrylic

Best Paint for Plywood Reviews

1. Best Overall Paint for Plywood Furniture – Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain

The Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood is the best paint for plywood furniture.

It stands out due to its exceptional features and performance. Unlike some competitors, it requires no primer, simplifying the painting process.

The Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain and Sealer for Wood is tailored for painting plywood furniture and other wood projects. Staining birch plywood or any other painting project does not have to be stressful if you use the right paint.

What sets it apart is its unique “Goof Proof” application. This means no laps, runs, or streaks, making it a breeze for amateur painters to achieve professional-looking results.

I tested this stain and sealer on a plywood table, and the outcome was remarkable. When you first apply the rich Redwood shade, it might look darker. But after about two weeks, it will settle into its true, gorgeous hue.

Moreover, I used a roller, and there was no need for back-brushing, ensuring a smooth, streak-free finish. The simplicity of application, even in varying temperatures, was a definite plus.

Ready Seal 520 saves time and effort. It’s easier than products that need lots of brushing and fixing.

Although Ready Seal 520 costs more, it is worth the extra money. You get what you pay for because the quality and ease of application are good.

The finish lasts a long time, so it’s worth the investment. This product is not like other stains and sealers. It revolutionizes plywood furniture care.

What We Liked Most

Easy application for professional results.
No primer is required.
Gradual but beautiful color transformation.
Smooth, streak-free finish without back-brushing.
Applicable in various temperature conditions.

What Could Be Improved

The initial color appears darker before settling into the true shade.
Pricier compared to some competitors.

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2. Best Bang for the Buck – Minwax Wood Finish 227644444

The Minwax Wood Finish 227644444 is the best budget-friendly option among wood stains.

It stands out as the choice for those who seek an excellent wood stain. One of its main benefits is that it is affordable without compromising quality.

This stain enhances the natural wood grain with just one coat and gives a beautiful finish. It’s perfect for interior staining projects, including cabinets, doors, etc.

The stain dries fast, going into the wood in 5 minutes. It stops overlapping and fully dries in 2 hours. It’s a time-saver, making your wood projects both speedy and appealing.

The application is a breeze. Use a clean cloth or wood stain brush, apply in the direction of the grain, wait 5-15 minutes, and wipe away the excess stain. The longer you wait, the richer the color becomes. You can reapply coats for a deeper hue.

If you desire a deep, true black finish, this product delivers. It’s semi-transparent and complements a variety of wood types, providing a striking and modern look.

Minwax Wood Finish is a more affordable alternative paint, unlike Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain. It is cheaper if you want a good wood finish but don’t want to spend too much.

Although it doesn’t have the “Goof Proof” feature, it still provides great results at a lower price. This makes it a good option for budget-conscious shoppers.

What We Liked Most

Affordable price point.
Quick-drying, saving time on projects.
Easy application with the option for a deeper color.
True black wood stain that’s semi-transparent and versatile.

What Could Be Improved

Difficult to apply
You may need to apply extra coats to achieve the darkest black finish.

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3. Best Water-based Paint for Plywood – Modern Masters 296681 Paint

For a quick and effortless transformation of your cabinet-grade plywood, look no further than Modern Masters 296681 Front Door Paint, our top pick for painting plywood cabinets.

This high-quality paint can work wonders in just a day, revitalizing the appearance of your cabinets.

What truly sets this product apart is its long-lasting brilliance. The vibrant colors it offers will remain just as stunning decades down the line. Whether it’s an interior or exterior cabinet, this paint can swiftly breathe new life into it.

Notably, it’s water-based, ensuring durability without the emission of strong fumes during application. This makes it a safe choice for both your living space and the environment. Its quick drying time allows you to complete your cabinet makeover efficiently.

Here are some key steps to consider before applying this paint:

1. Thoroughly prepare and dry the surfaces.
2. Seal off non-paintable sections with painter’s tape.
3. Stir the paint thoroughly and paint the door edge near the hinges.
4. Remove or repaint hardware, numbers, and trim around windows.
5. Follow a top-to-bottom and left-to-right painting pattern for a polished finish.

Choose this paint, and you’ll witness the transformation of your cabinets. It works wonders on worn-out surfaces, reviving them to their former glory.

Whether refreshing an existing surface or dealing with a bare or oil-based one, this paint can bring vibrancy and style to your cabinets.

What We Liked Most

Quick and effortless transformation.
Long-lasting, brilliant colors.
Safe, water-based formula with minimal fumes.
Swift drying time for efficient painting.

What Could Be Improved

Pricey but worth it since a little goes a long way

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4. Most Durable Paint for Plywood – Rust-Oleum 1990502 Painter’s Touch

When painting plywood, especially for high-traffic areas like shed floors, the Rust-Oleum 1990502 Painter’s Touch Latex Paint stands out as the ultimate choice.

One of its most impressive qualities is its durability. It can withstand the rigors of foot traffic without cracking or peeling once it’s dry. Whether you’re tackling an indoor or outdoor project, this paint performs admirably and lives up to its reputation.

What makes it even more appealing is its affordability and ease of application. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality, making it a smart investment. Plus, it’s user-friendly, making it suitable for both seasoned DIY enthusiasts and beginners.

This latex-based paint offers a wide range of color options, from glossy white to bold reds and greens, allowing you to achieve the desired aesthetic for your project.

One of the standout features is its lack of strong odors. You won’t have to endure noxious fumes for weeks after painting plywood, ensuring a more pleasant experience.

I’ve found that lightly sanding the surface and using a quality plywood primer before applying this paint is crucial for optimal results. Stirring the paint and primer thoroughly and applying three thin coats instead of two thick ones guarantees complete coverage and a smoother finish.

While it excels in many aspects, it’s essential to note that using a high-quality brush rather than a roller is recommended for the best results. This paint delivers on its promise of durability and ensures a flawless surface for most DIY projects.

What We Liked Most

Versatile for indoor and outdoor use.
Exceptional durability, ideal for high-traffic areas.
Affordability without compromising quality.
Wide range of color options.
Minimal odor for a more comfortable painting experience.

What Could Be Improved

Requires proper surface preparation and primer for optimal results.
Brush application is recommended, which may require more time and effort than using a roller.

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5. Best paint for plywood floor – Krylon K05648007 COLORmaxx

Plywood flooring wears out with time, just like other surfaces. This could be a good fit if you need to breathe new life into your plywood project using acrylic paint latex. 

You can use this plywood paint on various crafts and objects. It’s easy to apply even if you have no experience. On top of that, you can use it on interior and exterior plywood projects. 

Suppose you need a semi-gloss paint with excellent adhesion to metal, wood, drywall, masonry, ceramic, metal, etc. In that case, your search ends with this product. It dries to the touch in just an hour. 

The most refined black hue is ideal for various applications, from furniture to imaginative touch-ups, and the semi-gloss finish offers a gleaming luster. Let the paint dry for two hours without interfering with it. 

 Stir this acrylic latex paint thoroughly with a stirring stick before using it. If you feel it is still too thick, add tiny amounts of water at a time to thin it to a brushable consistency.

The paint goes on smoothly and has superb coverage. Use it to do touch-ups on your iron rail, picnic table, handrail, kitchen table, benches, etc. They’ll look new even if you’ve had them for ages.

What We Liked Most

Ease of use
Excellent coverage
You can use it on different surfaces

What Could Be Improved

It’s too thin but covers well

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6. Best paint for plywood outside – KILZ Over Armor Wood & Concrete Resurfacer

This is your product if you need a revolutionary, waterproofing, solid color coating that revitalizes old, worn wood or concrete. Use this acrylic paint to fill holes and hide imperfections on wood.

It also works wonders on cracked vertical and horizontal surfaces such as railings, decks, or porches. Please do not use it on drivable surfaces or your boat.

When painting plywood in the exterior, apply two coats for maximum durability.

Note that this product has the consistency of mud or tar; hence a bit challenging to apply. Brushing it over a rough surface such as concrete requires much effort, so brace yourself for it.

Use a large paintbrush. Do not worry, though; your results are worth every effort. For best results, prep the surface well and ensure the area is free of dirt, dust, and grime.

The paint dries quickly. So, do not work under direct sunlight. Also, embark on your painting project when there’s no rain forecast for a few days. Use a putty knife to get the paint out of the can.

You can plop a scoop of it after every twelve inches and spend the next three hours on your hands and knees, spreading it further. You may not have to do two coats this way.

You can do just one coat and go through and touch up the sections that may need more. You’ll be so satisfied with the results that you’ll forget about how hard you worked for the results.

What We Liked Most

Durable
Works as marketed
Completely waterproof even to stagnant water

What Could Be Improved

It’s very thick but makes up for it in quality

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7. Best paint for plywood ceiling – RECOLOR Paint Recycled Interior Latex Paint

You know that the environment is nobody’s property to destroy but everyone’s responsibility to protect.

So grab this product if you care about your environment and need a paint formulated with all aspects of nature conservation.

It is a durable, environmentally friendly paint on different surfaces such as metal, concrete, vinyl, aluminium siding, plywood surface, etc. The drying time ranges from two to six hours.

Cleaning is simple, using only soap and water. Please note that colors may differ from batch to batch. To ensure color consistency, combine paint from different batches.

For professional results, properly prime the surfaces with a water-based primer. Before applying this product, you can also prime your surfaces with oil-based primers and follow the manufacturer’s instructions keenly when painting the sanded plywood.

The paint will go on smoothly and cover in a coat or two. It’s affordable, produces no strong fumes, and quality is second to none. This washable latex paint gives your surfaces a matte finish, not a high gloss finish.

It is available in different colors, and you can mix different shades to get the color you want. The paint is a bit thin, so you must apply two coats, as with most paints.

What We Liked Most

Superb coverage
Odorless
You can use it on different surfaces

What Could Be Improved

Thin but acceptable

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8. Best primer paint for plywood – Prestige Exterior Paint and Primer in One

This is your product if you need latex paint to paint plywood and simultaneously conceal surface imperfections such as dents and patches.

This Prestige paint is an incredible exterior paint appropriate for exterior surfaces such as suitably prepared bare wood, masonry, factory primed siding, aluminium, cement board siding, etc. 

Please note that actual paint colors might differ from those seen on-screen or in print. Clean the surfaces thoroughly before applying this plywood paint.

Ensure your plywood project is free of grime, dirt, wax, soap residue, and loose or flaking paint for professional results. High gloss or semi-gloss sections must be sanded to dull them.

Use an oil-based primer to coat all virgin, fresh, and factory-primed wood. It is a self-priming product, so you must not buy a primer separately. Your paint project will not stress you if you use this product.

Stir this paint and primer extensively before use and mix the provided colors to ensure color consistency. Then, apply with a top-quality brush, roller, or pad painter as directed. You can also spray paint this product.

Just slightly thin it with water if you need it if you are spray painting plywood. For great results, apply when the temperature in your area is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid overspreading the paint.

Please do not use this product indoors; use specific prestige interior paint. The dry time will differ based on the temperature and humidity of your geographical location.

It generally takes one or two hours to dry, but allow the paint to cure overnight before recoating. You’ll get a matte finish on your surfaces, which is great for hiding wood flaws.

What We Liked Most

Easy to use
Gorgeous colors
Excellent as concealing wood imperfection

What Could Be Improved

You may have to thin it to spray paint it

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9. Best enamel paint for plywood – Majic Paints 8-1501-4 Diamond Hard Acrylic

If you are looking for an all-purpose acrylic paint for your DIY project, this is your paint. You can use it on wood, metal, glass, steel, tile, drywall, brick, copper, plastics, masonry, etc.

It is a low-odor formula, meaning that it won’t emit strong fumes when used, and you will not inhale the upsetting paint smell for days after using it. It’s also non-flammable, so you won’t risk fire when or after using the product.

It is a water-based acrylic that gives oil-based paints a run. The paint is rust-resistant to ensure the surfaces retain their superior gloss and color for years. It also has a phenomenal ability to withstand scratch and scuff marks.

Another critical aspect of this paint is thinning it with water at about twenty per cent and getting incredible results. This paint also goes on, mixes well, and can work significantly with an airbrush when thinned.

It has good coverage, making it easy to find your desired colors. You get what you pay for in life most of the time. The bottle may be small to some people, but that makes up for its quality and effectiveness.

If you value high-quality paint with everything that comes with it, you’ll have no problem with this product. It is the answer to your prayers.

What We Liked Most

Works as advertised
It covers even laminate surfaces superbly well
Easy to work with, even with no experience

What Could Be Improved

Small bottle size but such a high-quality paint

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What is Plywood?

Manufacturers glue thin layers of wood together to create plywood, which is a type of wood. This construction makes it strong, stable, and resistant to warping. That’s why it’s popular in construction and furniture.

Plywood has different grades and thicknesses. This allows people to use it for many things, such as building sheathing and cabinetry.

Many woodworkers and builders like plywood because it’s cheap, user-friendly, and durable. It offers the perfect balance of strength and cost.

Type of Plywood For Painting 

You can paint any plywood as long as it is free of defects. You can sand the plywood edges to make them smooth by removing all the rough sections to create paint-grade plywood that won’t have knots on the wood surface and then paint it with the color of your choice. 

So, you do not have to go for the pricey premium veneers such as maple or oak if you need a painted plywood floor.

Just sand any affordable plywood and paint it with water-based paint, as these paints are effortless to use, have low VOCs, and have a simple water and soap cleanup.

What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Plywood?

Water-based paints such as acrylic latex paint are the best paint to use on plywood. Acrylic latex paints are easier to work with because they dry faster, letting you finish your plywood projects in no time. Epoxy paints are also a great choice since they are durable and effective.

Whatever kind of paint you opt for, ensure it is high-quality and apply it following the instructions on the can for the best possible results.

High-quality paints have a significant percentage of solids, resulting in a more durable and thicker finish and requiring fewer coats.

Education: What to Consider When Buying Plywood Paint

You do not just hop in a home improvement store or hardware store and buy any paint that pleases you. You’ll be disappointed if you do so because plywood paints differ greatly.

What works for you might disappoint someone else because projects and colors vary. Your assignment, the type of paints you used, and the procedure determine the results you get.

Consider the factors below to help you pick the right paint for plywood projects.

Is your project indoors or outdoors

If you want to use the paint for indoor applications, buy paint for interior use. If your plywood project is outdoors, go for exterior paint. Nonetheless, some paints can be used both indoors and outdoors.

The type of finish you want

Do you need a semi-gloss, high gloss, matte, or satin finish? Choose a product that spells out the type of finish it gives to surfaces.

The color of the finished product

Plywood paints are available in different colors. Go for a color that blends with the decor of your home. Check whether you can mix colors from the brand to create the color of your dreams.

Painting Plywood Furniture: How to Paint Plywood

If you get the right paint, painting plywood does not have to make you scratch your head bald.

Whether you desire a high gloss finish, matte, satin, or a smooth finish, it is achievable if you use the correct paint and follow the proper procedure. Follow the steps below to help you paint plywood like a pro.

Your budget

Buy a paint that’s within your budget. You can even save up for a while to buy high-quality paints from known brands like Walmart because, though they are pricey, they save you loads of cash and time in the long run. Plus, Walmart’s return policy on paint is quite reasonable, allowing you to exchange or return the paint if you’re dissatisfied with the color or quality.

Research a product before purchasing it to verify whether it is worth it.

Painting on Plywood Step-by-step

Step 1: Fill in nail holes with a wood filler

We always want the best in everything. For best results, conceal surface flaws before painting the plywood. For this, you’ll need a high-quality wood filler.

Use a decent scraper and wear gloves when smoothing the plywood gaps, crannies, and nooks to the same level as the plywood surfaces. Sand the surface with electric sanders, orbital sanders, or sand by hand with a sanding block.

Allow the wood filler to set for forty-five minutes to an hour, based on the temperature and your chosen product. Sand down wood filler that is no longer flush with the plywood surface.

Step 2: Sand exposed edges and clean the wood surface

Consider rounding its rough edges if you are passionate about your plywood project. This adds some extra protection when moving your furniture. You can also decide how round you need exposed plywood edges to be.

You may use a power sander. Smooth down the plywood edges with fine-grit sandpaper. If your plywood does not have a finish, apply a joint compound to the face of each wood and the edges.

Apply the mixture with a putty knife and spread it uniformly. Cover all of the holes that you filled with wood filler. Allow the joint compound to dry for at least 24 hours.

Step 3: Apply plywood primer

Once the entire surface is clean, apply your favorite primer with a brush, roller, or paint sprayer available online or at your local hardware store. If you intend to use an electric sprayer, ensure it is primer-safe.

Apply two coats of primer to plywood surfaces. Allow four to six hours for the layers to dry completely.

Before applying the paint, lightly sand the plywood projects between applications to prevent dust and other particles from compromising the surface.

Keep in mind that plywood paint and primer can be hazardous if inhaled. Work in a well-ventilated space and wear suitable protective equipment.

Step 4: Apply the initial thin coat of plywood paint

After the primer has dried thoroughly, you may begin applying your first layer of paint. Apply a uniform, thin coat to the entire surface.

Do not worry about ensuring the primer is not visible underneath when applying the first layer. This is only the first coat, and thin coats are preferable over heavy coats, even if you notice the primer at first.

Step 5: Lightly Sand Between coats

Give the painted plywood floor a light sanding between applications to ensure a smooth, finished product.

Once the plywood paint is completely dry, lightly rub a new 180 – 220 fine-grit sandpaper over the painted surface.

This will remove any flaws that arose during the painting process. Remove dust accumulated after sanding between applications using a vacuum or a clean, dry towel. 

Step 6: Apply additional coats as needed

It is advisable to apply multiple thin coats to achieve a smooth and sturdy final finish. This is crucial if the surface will receive a lot of foot traffic.

Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat. This helps to stop the color from cracking or peeling. Apply a top coat and always follow the instructions on the can for professional results. 

FAQs

What Paint to Use on Plywood?

When picking paint for plywood, think about your budget, project size, color likes, and style. Choosing the right paint for your plywood project is easy when you know what you need.

Our top pick is Ready Seal 520 Exterior Stain. It’s easy to use, applicable on multiple surfaces, suitable for interior and exterior use, effective, durable aand affordable. 

Choose paints with a variety of colors, so you don’t have to mix them to get the color you want.

Also, it’s helpful to pick a stain that works indoors and outdoors. It should also work on many different surfaces. This versatility provides you with ample flexibility to tackle a multitude of projects.