Refinishing Furniture With Paint

Refinishing Furniture with Paint

The favorite hobby of many people is visiting thrift shops, used furniture stores, and yard sales. I am one of them. I always look for old pieces of furniture that don't look like much. By taking a look at pieces that other people pass over, you can really find some treasures. And if you're handy with a paintbrush, you can turn an eyesore into a treasure, quickly and easily!

** Refinishing Tip ** The need for home refinishing is on the rise as many people like the neighborhood they live in and the affordability of their existing homes. Many aspects of internal home improvements can be more about what is currently fashionable rather than having practical considerations so it is worth finding out what types of work are being carried out in your area. The type of refinishing work you are considering will obviously depend on your circumstances and if you intend to stay, then area fashions will not be your major concern.

When refinishing with paint, the first step is to remove the existing finish. One quick and easy way to take off all old paint or stain is with a gel-based paint remover. Simply apply the paint remover to the piece, then allow it to sit for at least 20 minutes. Be sure to allow good ventilation to avoid dangerous fumes. After 20 minutes, remove all excess paint remover with steel wool and a good rinsing. Let the piece of furniture dry thoroughly.

This is followed by sanding. Use a 120-grit sandpaper to begin with, then move on to a 220-grit for fine sanding. After sanding, brush off all excess grit and take a look at the piece. You may notice that there are dents, holes, or scratches. If so, use a water based wood putty to fill them in, then after it dries, sand the putty to a smooth finish.

Next, it's primer. Use one coat of oil-based urethane to provide a smooth surface that paint will cling to. Speaking of paint, you'll want to choose paint that's especially designed for wood pieces. This should be easily located at any paint store or home improvement store. Apply three coats of paint over the dry primer, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

** Refinishing Tip ** Making a nice room... If you have the space, a writing desk and television all contribute to the feeling of being able to shut out the world and luxuriate in your own private space. If you are going this far then why not add a mini fridge and drink making facility which could turn your bedroom into a the equivalent of a personally designed hotel suite. As you spend time refinishing your master bedroom in a way that reflects your lifestyle, it can be a worthwhile project and who knows, you may find yourself spending even more time in this often undervalued room.

After the paint dries, apply a protective finish. There are finishes available in matte, semi-gloss and gloss finishes. What you choose will depend on your individual preferences. If your furniture will be used outdoors, use a finishing product that's weatherproof.

As you can tell, refinishing furniture with paint is an endeavor that most anyone can accomplish in a day or two! This job is satisfying and rewarding -- you'll be amazed at the difference a little refinishing can provide to even the most unattractive pieces of furniture!

Refinishing News:

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Emmaus finds a fountain for pennies on the dollar - Allentown Morning Call
Emmaus Borough Council is considering keeping an ornamental fountain as the centerpiece of Triangle Park after learning that one could be installed for a fraction of the original estimated cost. Council President Michael Waddell said Charlie Barebo ...

Clifton seeks help with school upgrades - NorthJersey.com
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Parkview's New Owners Unveil $10 Million Renovation Plan at November 14 Tenant Meeting
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Court renovation nearing completion - Daily Progress
The green barriers that have surrounded the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court building on High Street will be coming down in 2009. Mike Mollica, capital projects coordinator for Charlottesville, said the buildings $20.1 million renovation is ...