Apply water to a board to raise or “pop” the grain. Apply the whitewash solution, and then scrape it off with a putty knife to highlight the grain. Next try applying a layer of gray paint mixed with water to a wood that would typically have a yellow undertone, like pine, to mute the color. Once dry, apply a whitewash finish to complete the look.

Mix paint and water to desired consistency (for this example, I used equal parts). Dip rag in mixture and apply it liberally to the wood as you would a stain, wiping over it with a rag to evenly distribute it. Dry and repeat coats until desired opacity.

Here are 5 quick and easy steps to whitewash your dark wood paneling. Follow each and every step carefully: Drop cloths: Firstly you need to lay down some drop cloths in order to protect your flooring or your furniture that may be dilapidated. You can also use a painter's tape to protect light fixtures or light switches that cannot be removed.