How to Paint Wood Furniture for a Dining Room

Dining rooms lend themselves equally to refined, soothing decor or bold color choices. Rather than replace old dining room furniture, opt for a more economical solution by updating pieces with a fresh coat of paint. Select paint in a bright color like tangerine or Kelly green to complement a bold wallpaper pattern. While black is always safe, metallic paints in subtle shades can give you a look that is both versatile and sophisticated in an elegant dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cover the floor where you are working with a drop cloth. Fill a bucket with water and mix in some mild detergent, enough to get it a little soapy. Wipe the furniture off with a sponge dampened with the cleanser to remove dust, dirt and oil. Dry the pieces with a rag.

2

Remove all hardware with a screwdriver, including drawer pulls and doorknobs. Slide out any drawers and set them aside.

3

Lightly sand the surface of dining furniture that has been varnished or painted with semi-gloss paint. Use 220-grit sandpaper to dull the surface. Wipe the pieces with the rag after you finish sanding them.

4

Apply a latex primer using a 1-inch brush or a 3-inch brush, depending on the size of the area being painted. Brush on following the direction of the wood grain. Allow the primer to dry, about an hour, or according to the manufacturer's instructions. Lightly sand the primed furniture to achieve a smooth, grit-free surface, if necessary.

5

Apply two thin, even coats of either a semi-gloss paint for a shiny, lacquer-like look or a satin finish for a softer sheen. Brush on following the direction of the wood grain. Wipe any drips or paint spatters before they have a chance to dry. Allow the paint to dry completely before attempting to varnish it.

6

Use a semi-gloss varnish to create a highly reflective surface and a satin varnish for a softer effect. Brush the varnish on in long, smooth strokes. Shine a light on the surface to find areas that you may have missed. Apply two coats of varnish, if necessary, following the manufacturer's recommendations for drying times between coats.

7

Allow the varnish to cure completely for at least 24 hours before you move or touch the furniture to avoid scratching or dulling the finish. Carefully reattach all hardware and slip drawers back in.