Sad-looking table? A chair past its prime? That dresser you’ve inherited but low-key hate? Wait a second-don’t throw it out.
The paint is your secret weapon.
Welcome to the easiest DIY you will fall in love with: Painting Old Furniture for a Fresh Look. Zero artistic skills? Absolutely not a problem. This guide is beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and result-satisfying.
💡Why Paint: Do Not buy
Save Money (new furniture = $$$)
Personalize to Match Your Vibe
Eco-Friendly: unspoken waste, more taste
Surprisingly Therapeutic (you will find out…)
🧰 What You Need:
So, first things first. Get these supplies:
Sandpaper (medium + fine grit)
Primer (optional, but great for longevity)
Furniture Paint (Chalk paint, acrylic, or latex)
Paintbrushes or Foam Rollers
Drop Cloth/Old Sheet
Painter’s Tape (for edges & clean lines)
Screwdriver (to remove handles/knobs)
Damp Cloth (to clean)
Clear Coat or Sealer (optional for the longest-lasting finish)
Pro Tip: Chalk paint gives furniture a velvety matte finish and is way less prep.
🛠️ Step By Step Instructions: Make Old Look Bold
Step 1: Clean It Like It Means Something
Wipe down all surfaces with a damp cloth, either baby wipes or a microfiber cloth, to remove dust grease, or mystery crumbs from 2017. Do not skip. The paint hates dirt.
Step 2: Some Light Sanding for Smooth Results
Use medium-grit sandpaper for roughening shiny surfaces. A little scuff up here and there helps the paint stick better. Wipe again.
Step 3: Who Said Anything about Priming?
Priming helps with paint adhesion and provides a barrier against stains and bleeds. If you’re painting light over dark works, prime it!
Step 4: Start Painting
Go into the corners and edges first, then the flat parts. Use thin, even coats, globbing is not an option. Two coats are usually enough.
Foam Roller= good for a smoother finish
Brush= leaves some texture, or rustic charm
Step 5: Don’t Rush; Drying Time Is Important
Do not even think about it. Wait until it is dry fully: usually a couple of hours but depends on the type of paint.
Step 6: Seal Antiflow (Optional)
For your heavy-use pieces (coffee tables or chairs), seal this bad boy in with clear sealant.
Step 7: Attach Hardware Again (or Change It)
Clean the old knob or change it for the new ones. It’s like jewelry for your furniture!
🎨 Design Ideas for Inspiration:
Two-tone dressers (painted frame + wood drawers)
Black matte nightstands = sleek & modern
Soft pastel chairs for a boho or vintage vibe
Color-block end tables (SO Insta-worthy)
Distressed white for that farmhouse charm!
📸 Show Off Your Work!
Did you just finish painting something? Tag it with #LeInteriore we love to see how “meh” became “whoa”!
Final Words:
Your old furniture is not outdated; rather, it is simply waiting for your creative genius to kick it into action. Be it a chair from a thrift store or a side table that was lost and found, all it could take is a can of paint to make the change between blah and brilliant.