You’ve seen the pictures: scuffed-up coffee tables, distressed dressers and sad, unloved chairs all revitalized by a colorful new paint job. It seems so simple on your screen, but is it?
All that sanding, not to mention finesse with a brush, is awfully intimidating — especially if you’re a painting novice. We get it — so we asked the pros at the lifestyle site Brit + Co. for a step-by-step guide.
“Painting furniture is not as daunting as some might think,” says Roxy Taghavian, a senior editor at Brit + Co. “The key to a beautiful finished project is a good brush and some high-quality paint. Sure it requires a few coats, but the overall process is easy.”
Here’s her process:
Choose your hues
Neutrals are always great for furniture, but where’s the fun in that? “I am really into pops of bright pink right now. To make it stand out, stick with black, white or gray as a base.” Taghavian also likes the look of wood with bursts of white, peach, mint or light blue. Go bold or go home.
Sand your piece lightly
Don’t sweat this step. “Simply go over the piece with a fine grit sanding sponge.” Wipe off the dust using a damp cloth and let it dry fully.
Apply a coat of primer
When it’s dry, sand it again and wipe it clean. (“Don't you dare skip this part!”) Also, be sure your primer matches your paint. For example, if you use an oil-based paint, use an oil-based primer.
Paint your piece with the color (or colors) of your choice
Don't forget to stir your paint before you start! Then paint your piece of furniture from top to bottom. “If you get some drips, you can blend them in as you move down your piece,” Taghavian said.
Let your paint dry — then add a second coat
Once again, let it dry.
Burst with pride
Easy peasy, right? Now what to paint next….
*BONUS TIP: Use extender in your paint — this slows down the drying time so that you can paint evenly.