Weekend DIY project: kids’ outdoor retreat

0

Cubbyhouses have been a staple in many Australian homes for generations. However, with constantly being exposed to the elements, many are neglected, run-down and long-forgotten, as well as devoid of colour and character. Inject some fun into your cubby with this DIY project from Dulux.

Cubby house

  1. Gather your painting supplies: Dulux Weathershield in your chosen colours(s), drop sheet, high quality synthetic brush for cutting in, medium nap (10-18mm) roller, roller tray, 400 grit sandpaper, painter’s tape, and old cloths.
  2. Ensure the surface has been properly prepared prior to starting to paint. Follow the label on the can for more information.
  3. Start painting by cutting in around the edges and hard-to-reach areas using Dulux Weathershield.
  4. For best results, begin at the top and work your way down. Paint the underside of your boards, then the face. Use long strokes in horizontal motions from one side to the other. Tip: never stop halfway along the board and return to it later or you’ll create an overlapping of paint, which is difficult to correct. Allow to dry for 2 hours.
  5. Give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper and repeat step 4 for a second coat. If painting bare timber, a third coat will need to be applied.

Picnic table

  1. After sanding down the surface, apply 1 coat of Dulux 1Step Prep.
  2. Start painting by cutting in around the edges of the furniture piece using Dulux Aquanamel.
  3. Apply paint to the surface using short, horizontal brush strokes.
  4. Whilst the paint is still wet, smooth over the painted section with long brush strokes and without reloading the brush – a few strokes should be enough to smooth the surface.
  5. Use a roller to paint in the middle section, if required.
  6. Allow to dry for 2 hours then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper and repeat steps 4 and 5 for a second coat

Planters

  1. Depending on the surface, prepare as per label instructions. Apply one coat of Dulux 1Step Prep to prime.
  2. Start painting with Dulux Aquanamel, applying the paint using short, horizontal brush strokes.
  3. Whilst the paint is still wet, smooth over the painted section with long brush strokes and without reloading the brush – a few strokes should be enough to smooth the surface.
  4. Allow to dry for 2-hours then give the surface a light sand with 400 grit sandpaper and repeat steps 2 and 3 for a second coat.
  5. Time to show the kids and so they can start their outdoor adventures!

More stories: