6 Easy Steps to Painting Furniture- (How to Create Your Dream Furniture)

The phrase “hand-me-down” conjures up images of used, or valueless items that have been passed through many hands to yours. But when it comes to old furniture, this can be a treasure in disguise! You’ll be surprised how much an update in color can enhance the look of a dated item.

Here’s a quick guide on how to paint your furniture to match your home décor.

Pick Your Piece of Furniture

1. The first and easiest step is to pick out the perfect piece of furniture, if you do not already have it. Check out places like flea markets, thrift stores, or even Good Will!

Prepping Your Furniture

2. This next step is not a must-do, but if you have a piece of furniture with a polyurethane finish, sanding it down (even with a quick rub just to break up the slick poly finish) is the key to getting the paint to adhere. When sanding, you can use a palm sander with 80- to 100-grit sandpaper. Then finish off with finer sandpaper (150- to 200-grit) to get an even smoother surface. Note; the higher the number, the finer the sandpaper grit.

Pro tip: When sanding, always move with the grain of the wood.

Picking Your Paint & Primer

3. If you’re worried about the original color bleeding through (especially if they’re darker colors like red or black), a few coats of primer should do the trick. If you’re painting raw wood that’s never been painted or stained before, give it a coat of primer before painting. This helps to reduce the number of coats.

You can find different primers at your local home improvement store. Some designer-recommended primers are Kilz primer or Zinnser primer. Apply the primer as if you’re applying paint, using a roller or brush.

Layer Your Paint

4. Sometimes the hardest part about repainting your furniture is simply deciding which color to choose! We recommend grey, beige, soft blues, or greens. Soft colors will make a bigger statement than you expect! Layer the paint and sand the top layer of paint down to give the piece a more aged feel. We will go into more detail on this in step 6.

Choosing a Finish

5. Choose the paint finish you would like (could be a flat finish, or something that has a little bit of shine). For an extra touch, you can add a wax or glaze on the furniture. Poly sealer/topcoat will ensure your high traffic furniture is protected because it cures to a super hard finish. This is best for pieces of furniture that are going to get a lot of use like a buffet, table, or nightstand because you can wipe it down easily.

Pro tip: Make sure your surface is clean from any dust or particles before you apply your wax.

Finishing the Furniture

6. This final step is optional, but if you want to give your piece some character, you can sand off some of the edges to expose the paint underneath. That way the color layer underneath will give your piece a custom, unique look! This creates the more antiqued look/feel that a lot of people love. For example – paint it blue, then paint white over it, and sand off the white to show some blue.

If an old piece of furniture is not the perfect fit right off the bat, do not be discouraged. With a little craftsmanship, it could be just what you’ve wanted! Don’t forget to have fun – this is your work of art!

For more useful tips and mortgage information, contact Pam at Movement Mortgage today by visiting her website. You can also visit her at 7773 S. Suncoast Blvd., in Homosassa, Florida. Call her directly at (352) 634-0716.

Courtesy of Pam Cleary, Branch Manager, Movement Mortgage

7773 S. Suncoast Blvd., Homosassa, FL 34446

There is something for everyone when you are at your leisure in Citrus County Florida. So if you are looking for an idyllic setting to call home, contact one of our friendly professionals at Coldwell Banker Next Generation Realty of Citrus. Speak with a professional today (352) 382-2700.

When you’re ready to build, contact the trusted professionals of Edward Russell Johnston Inc. Over 42 years of experience building beautiful homes in Sugarmill Woods and across the Nature Coast. Call (352) 795-2200.