How to Paint and Modernize Old Furniture in Spokane, WA

Let me just start by saying my dresser is uglier than my neighbor’s sick dog. 

I hate to get rid of a fully functioning dresser… 

It has great bones and a lifetimes worth of belly rolling laughs and memories. 

Plus, come on, furniture is expensive to replace!

So, I took it upon myself and went the DIY route. 

I researched how to refinish furniture, talked with old friends, went over my past knowledge/skills, and looked up simple ideas to modernize the look with accents or accessories.

Today I’m going to show you how to make your bedroom look like you just robbed the Ritz Carlton penthouse suite. 

Step 1: Prep the Surface

It’s the best way to get that perfect finish with less problems.

Start by washing it with mild soap and warm water.

Of course then rinse it well and make sure it’s dry. 

Step 2: Scuff Up Surface With a #220 Grit Sanding Paper

This will help the surface accept the paint. 

This also removes slick varnishes, splinters, or those rough patches. 

I use tacking clothes to remove the dust from the sanding; a damp towel does fine as well. 

Step 3 (The Fun Part Starts): Time to Cover That Wench Up! 

Always use a soft bristle brush to help alleviate brush strokes. 

I’m in love with Extreme Bond Primer from Sherwin-Williams. 

It has a wicked adhesion and helps the topcoat unstoppable against wear and tear. 

Let it dry at least for at least two hours.

Then paint on the topcoat with Emerald Urethane trim/door/furniture enamel or any all surface enamel. 

Emerald Urethane is great because it’s a hybrid paint. 

Meaning it hardens and is durable like an oil and cleans up easy like a latex. 

Plus, this product is self-leveling leaving little to no brush strokes. 

Put on two coats and wait about 4 hours in between coats. 

Around this time, the dresser should be looking like Sarah Jessica Parker ready to go out for her late-night cocktail party. 

The rest is up to you on how else to modernize it!

Here are some tips on how to spruce it up even more and give it that extra “wow factor”.

1. Replace or paint all the knobs/handles with new ones or vintage
2. Paint the doors/drawers an accent color
3. Pull out the top drawers and replace with cool baskets for junk
4. or chop off those hideous legs

I hope you give it a try! I promise you my dresser has all new vibes now, and I’m not sorry for calling it ugly beforehand…

However, if you ever feel like your project has taken a turn for the worst, here at Preble Painting we’re happy to lend a hand!

You can book a free estimate here.

Happy DIY’ing!