If you’re looking to freshen up your furniture, painting can be a great option. It’s easier and quicker than sanding the old finish off, but be sure to prepare your piece properly before beginning the painting process.
Sand your wood to give it a bit of character or just make sure there aren’t any super shiny finishes that won’t accept paint.
Preparation
No matter if you are painting your first piece of furniture or are an experienced DIYer, preparation is just as important as the paint. It may be tempting to skip ahead and skip this step, but taking time is key for successful results.
Prior to painting your furniture, be sure to thoroughly clean it. Doing so will guarantee the paint adheres well and lasts for extended use.
Begin by cleaning the surface of your furniture using a damp rag or vacuum cleaner and degreasing soap. This will eliminate any dust, dirt, or grease from its surface.
The next step in prepping your furniture for painting is to sand it. Sanding provides a roughened-up surface so the paint adheres better.
The amount of sanding that you do depends on the desired look. For instance, if you want your painted furniture to have a smooth, glossy finish, then lightly use 220-grit sandpaper.
Primer
When painting furniture, a primer is necessary to help the paint adhere better. Doing this prevents chipping, bubbling, and brush marks during the process.
When selecting primers for furniture, there are two basic types: latex and oil-based. Select the type that works best with the paint type you plan to use on your furnishings.
Primer also helps to smooth and prepare the surface for painting, giving it a more authentic look. Furthermore, primer keeps stains from showing through in the paint and prevents chipping or cracking in the future.
Primers for various surfaces such as wood paneling, plaster walls, and bricks can be purchased at any discount retail store or paint store.
Paint
Paint is a colored substance applied over surfaces and dried to form either an attractive or protective coat. There are various types of paint available for you to select from.
When selecting furniture paint, opt for high-quality products designed specifically for this task. These types of coatings adhere well to wood, laminate, plastic, and particle board (latex wall paint from big box stores does not work as well).
When painting furniture, the ideal paint should adhere well and maintain its shine over time. Furthermore, it must be durable against scratches, and wear from children, pets, and the elements.
The initial step in prepping furniture for painting is to scrape away any wax, grease, nicotine layers, or embedded dirt from the surface. Doing this allows the paint to penetrate more deeply into the wood and give your finished product a more even appearance.
Wax
Furniture wax is a type of sealant used to protect painted furniture from chipping and fading over time while creating a smooth finish that can withstand light scratches.
Create antiqued or aged effects on painted furniture by applying dark wax over carved details to bring out their beauty.
Apply furniture wax with a lint-free cloth or wax brush, making sure the application is done thinly and evenly so there are no visible ridges.
Once the wax has dried, gently buff it with a lint-free rag to create an even sheen and remove any excess wax.
Reapply wax every year or so if you want your furniture to remain smooth and glossy for extended periods. However, be aware that over time the wax may wear down and oxidize; thus, refinishing with a new coat of paint could be more cost-effective in the long run.
