Step 1: Find Your Inner Calm/Relax

When facing deadlines, it’s easy to rush through a painting project, but taking a slower approach is key to achieving a smooth and durable finish. Take the opportunity to listen to TED talks or an audiobook and embrace the zen of painting.

Step 2: Sanding is Essential

Just as the real estate adage says “Location, location, location,” when it comes to painting, it’s all about “Prep, prep, prep.” To ensure an even finish, thorough sanding is necessary. Use a medium grit sandpaper to remove old paint, stains, and debris, creating a smooth surface that allows the paint to adhere properly. If the furniture has intricate parts, hand sanding will be required.

Step 3: Clean and Prepare

After sanding, it’s crucial to clean off all the sawdust from the furniture. A tack cloth is highly recommended for this task, as it effectively removes any particles that could negatively affect the paint job. Wipe every inch of the furniture and repeat this cleaning process after each sanding session. If needed, use painter’s tape to protect areas that won’t be painted.

Step 4: Apply Primer

If the furniture was previously painted or stained, a stain-blocking primer like Kilz or Zinsser Bulls-Eye 1-2-3 is recommended. Otherwise, a regular primer will suffice. Use a brush or roller to apply a thin coat of primer to the entire surface of the furniture. Let it dry overnight, then lightly sand and clean again. If necessary, apply another coat of primer.

Step 5: Start Painting

Now it’s time to paint. Patience is once again key. For furniture with flat surfaces, using a roller will provide a faster application and a streak-free finish. For furniture with round or hard-to-reach areas, a brush is necessary. Whichever tool you choose, apply a thin coat of paint in the direction of the wood grain. To prevent drips and buildup, go over the freshly painted areas with the tip of a brush, especially around edges and joints where excess paint can accumulate. Allow this coat to dry overnight to ensure a hardened surface.

Step 6: Repeat the Process

Once the first coat is dry, repeat the process: sand, wipe, and apply another thin coat of paint. Repeat this cycle – paint, dry, sand, and clean – as necessary. Achieving the desired coverage may require up to four or five coats of paint.

Step 7: Seal and Preserve

After achieving full coverage, protect the finish with a top coat. Use a brush to apply one or two layers of polyacrylic, making sure to sand and clean between each layer. Alternatively, a clear finishing wax can also be used. Avoid using varnish, as it has the potential to yellow over time.