We are all often confused by oil vs. water based paints. Which paint can be used over which paint. Can oil based paints be painted over by water based paints? Cabinet painting oil based paint is used often because of it's durability… but faux wood graining is often applied with water based paints. 

How in the world do you know which paints and glazes to use??

A new subscriber recently wrote to me asking this very question: 

I have oil base painted kitchen cabinets that I would like to faux wood grain. The cabinets are off white and I want them oak color. Can the faux finish adhere to oil base paint. I have been told since it is an oil base the base coat has to be oil also. I am also not sure of the type of glaze. I would appreciate any help!!

Article about:  Faux Wood Grain Cabinets

Well… you all know, I try my best to help all of you with your painting problems… so let's see if I can clear this on up for everyone.

You can paint latex (water based glaze) over the oil based paint… but it will never hold up. Really. The faux finish will be to fragile to grip to the paint underneath with the wear and tear cabinets have daily. 

I have often used faux water based glaze over water based paints… yes… but, never… ever on cabinets.

So… what's the answer?  Get the windows open and the fans going… because this is smelly! But… you have to use oil base components to create the wood graining you are striving for.

So what is faux glaze in an oil based format??? Stain. Yep… good old stain does the trick for wood graining over paint.

Of course… these are my simplified ideas for wood vs. oil… professional cabinet finishers may have viewpoints that are different than mine.  I am not a professional cabinet finisher… this is just what works for me when cabinet painting  Oil Based Paint.