How to Apply a Paint Finish to Wood Projects How to Apply This Finish 1. Sand the project up through the grits to150-grit a. It is a good idea to sand pieces that will be hard to reach before assembly. 2. If you have any nail holes, cracks or defects in the wood, fill them now with a wood filler — sand smooth 3. Brush on a coat of latex primer — sand smooth when it dries 4. Brush on a coat of Chalk or Milk-Paint. (A second coat may be required) 5. Rub on a coat of colored wax as an accent Supply