TRANSFORMiNG THE MUNDANE
There is something extraordinarily special in taking something you 'like' and turning it into something you 'love'. That is why paint is a versatile, inexpensive, transforming agent when it comes to furniture. It is a way of transforming the ordinary or the mundane into something of beauty.
Paint covers worn and imperfect surfaces, gives a ho-hum piece some style and adds a touch of color or whimsy to a traditionally 'serious' piece of furniture. Whether your furniture came from Dad and Mom, the curb on trash day or the 'as is' clearance section of a store... we have a few ideas how to give it a lift and add some personal style.
iN A NUTSHELL
Most pieces whether they are wood, plastic or metal... can be repainted. A quick tutorial follows but if you are new to this, we recommend googling 'repaint furniture' for more detailed videos and tutorials.The nutshell 'HOW TO' tutorial follows:
SHOPPiNG LiST
Single-use Latex gloves
Quality paint brush (if using canned paint)
Primer
Paint (see #4 for types of finishes)
Tarp, cardboard or newspaper to protect surrounding surfaces from paint splatter
Fine Sandpaper
Embellishments (knobs, pulls or other accents)
PLAN OF ACTiON
1. Remove as much loose and flaking paint/finish as possible. Use an electric sander or hand sand it to a smooth finish. Gently sand, using a fine grade sandpaper, over all surfaces to give the primer something to grip.
2. Wipe all surfaces with a damp cloth to remove all sanding dust.
3. Apply primer (brush it on or use a quality spray) making sure it is primer intended to be used with the type of surface you are covering. Follow manufacturing directions for drying time.
4. Choosing Paint. When choosing a finish, remember that 'Gloss' finishes will show every imperfection but they are highly washable. 'Semi-gloss' and 'Satin' paints have less sheen and are cleanable. 'Flat' finishes hide imperfections but are not scrubbable. Choose carefully.
5. Paint it. Using a quality brush or spray, paint the furniture carefully, one side at a time, allowing adequate drying time in between coats. Follow manufacturer's instructions.
6. Embellish your furniture with unique knobs, pulls other accents, making sure the furniture is very dry before tightening each embellishment.
REPAiNTED FURNiTURE DESiGN iDEAS
