I recently completed the same project. I think Lexxy
gave a pretty complete summary. Here are some
variations I had:
-I used one-part polyurethane paint that is formulated
for use above the water line. I paid about $25 for a
quart. The "Hatteras White" seems to be an almost
perfect match for my bathtub--which is the only part I
didn't paint.
-I applied it with a brush. Foam brushes worked well
for me because you can toss them out when you're done,
but they don't shed bristles. They do make little
bubbles. But, I found that the paint leveled out
amazingly well. There were no traces of bubbles or
brush strokes in the finished work. In my opinion,
spraying is not necessary--but remember that this
advice is worth what you paid for it.
-The stuff will run. You may want to consider
painting only the portions that are lying flat. This
will take 3 passes per coat on some parts. But, it is
sure to give a good looking result.
-The paint is pretty soft at first. If you can stand
the wait, let the painted parts sit for a week or two.
I put mine in the Airstream to "bake" in the daily
110 degree heat of the closed-off interior.
I have been stripping the woodwork with a "water
soluble" stripper. It takes a long time to evaporate,
which gives good working time but requires long waits
after stripping. DO NOT rinse the wood with water--no
matter what the instructions suggest. I strongly
advise against sanding, because the veneer is really
thin. I have been refinishing with Spar Urethane. I
do recommend spraying it on--I just buy it in cans.
WOW! That black walnut looks truly amazing when it is
cleaned up!
Jon in SC
68 Overlander