Paint can Breathe New Life into Old Furniture

Transform old cabinets, cupboards, dressers, tables and chairs from drab to dreary with a few coats of paint. The process is time-consuming but not difficult, and can make worn-out or hand-me-down pieces stylish and functional again.

If you don’t have any pieces suitable for repurposing, but want to try it, check out used furniture stores.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to repurposing wood furniture:

Prepare your space

Set up a well-ventilated work area, ideally outdoors or in a garage. Lay down a drop cloth or newspapers to protect your floor or concrete.

Clean the item you will be painting

Use a mild detergent and water to remove dirt, grease and grime. Let it dry fully before going to the next step.

Remove the hardware

Take off the handles, knobs and hinges to make painting easier, and to avoid getting paint on them.

Repair and sand

1. Fill any holes or cracks with wood filler.
2. Let that dry according to the product instructions, then sand the area(s) smooth.
3. Then sand the entire piece with medium-grit sandpaper to remove the old finish and create a smooth surface for the primer and paint to adhere to.
4. Wipe off sanding dust with a damp cloth.

Prime

Apply a coat of primer to the furniture, especially if you are painting over a dark color, or if the piece is made of a material that paint does not adhere to well. Allow the primer to completely dry before painting.

Paint

Apply the first coat using a brush or foam roller, depending on the size of the surface. Use long, even strokes to avoid brush marks.

Let the first coat dry all the way. (Follow paint manufacturer’s instructions)

Apply additional coats as needed to get the coverage and color you want, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next one.

Add details

Use painter’s tape to create patterns or protect areas you don’t want to paint. Consider adding a different color for details, trims or drawer fronts of dressers and cabinets.

Seal the paint

Once the final coat is dry, apply a protective finish like polyurethane or wax to protect the paint and enhance durability.

Reattach the hardware

Once everything is totally dry, put the hardware back on, or replace it with new for a fresh look.

Finish

Check for any touch-ups needed and apply additional paint if needed. Allow the furniture to cure for several days before using it to make sure the paint is fully hardened.

Keys to Success

Pick an appropriate piece. Once you find something you like, evaluate whether or not it has potential. Vintage or antique pieces from Legacies Upscale Resale are good for refinishing and or restoring because they are usually better quality.

Ask yourself:

1. Is it solid wood?
2. Does it have any critical damage?
3. Is it fully functional?
4. Do I have the DIY know-how to fix its issues?

Choose your paint carefully. Latex gives great coverage and yields a smooth surface, but requires primer. Chalk, mineral and milk paints technically require little to no prep.

How to get special looks:

• Try chalk paint for a vintage or shabby-chic look
• Choose milk paint for a more rustic or distressed appearance
• Consider spray paint for smaller items or intricate details
• Distress furniture by lightly sanding the edges and corners of painted furniture after it dries

Add wax to the slides of the drawers and runner to provide lubrication. This will make them slide more easily and prevent friction, which can cause wear and tear.