Providing new radiance to old wooden furniture frequently begins with applying a fresh coat of paint. However, selecting the ideal wood paint to revive and transform your cabinets, tables, and chairs requires proper decision-making.
Follow this guide to learn about paint types, finishes, surface prep, colour selection, application techniques, and care for painted wood furniture.
How to Choose the Right Wood Paint?
Choosing the right wooden paints can significantly enhance the look and durability of your wooden surfaces. Here are some essential tips to help you make the perfect choice for your project.
1. Choosing the Right Type of Paint
Analyse the existing wood piece first to determine the best paint for the project. Consider these factors that impact paint selection:
- Porosity
Porous woods like pine tend to absorb paint unevenly. Filling the grains with wood conditioner allows for even absorption. Hard, dense woods like teak require less conditioning.
- Surface Condition
Sand away any loose splinters or rough areas with medium-grit sandpaper. Fill holes and cracks with wood filler for the smoothest finish.
- Prior Treatments
Remove any existing paint, stain, wax or varnish completely with sanding before painting bare wood. Pay extra attention to formerly oil-treated outdoor patio furniture.
2. Consider Finish and Sheens
The paint’s sheen impacts its durability and how beautifully it showcases wood grain:
- High Gloss
Glossy enamel paints highlight wood details gorgeously but require flawless application as they display surface imperfections.
- Eggshell or Satin
More porous softwoods often look best painted in more forgiving eggshells or satin sheens rather than gloss.
- Flat
Flat-finish paints are ideal for furniture that won’t be subjected to heavy use, as they tend to scuff more easily.
3. Prep the Wood Surface Thoroughly
Proper prep helps paint adhesion for a smooth, lasting finish:
- Sand to remove loose grains and splinters
- Fill holes, cracks and defects with wood filler
- Remove old finishes with coarse sandpaper
- Clean thoroughly after sanding to remove all dust particles
- Finish prep by tacking clothing surfaces to pick up any remaining debris
4. Pick a Transformative Colour
White or black paint can dramatically refresh wooden furniture. Choose on-trend green, navy blue, or metallic brass paint colours for a bolder impact.
Or, for a cohesive style, select an accent wall shade, upholstery colour, or artwork hue already in the room.
5. Apply Primer Before Painting
Quality primer helps prep the surface and allows the paint to adhere correctly, resulting in a smooth, lasting finish. For best results, use the same primer brand as your chosen paint.
Oil-based primers work well to seal most wood types. For extra moisture protection on outdoor furniture, use a sealing outdoor primer.
6. Follow Application Best Practices
Proper paint application techniques prevent frustrating do-overs:
- Allow adequate drying times between paint coats
- Maintain a wet edge and avoid drips when brushing
- Use slow, even spray patterns if using spray equipment
- Finish with a protective sealant topcoat for added durability
- Use small artist brushes when painting ornamental carved details. Painter’s tape also keeps edges crisp.
Care and Maintenance
Follow these painting tips when reviving tired furniture pieces through strategic upgrades.
- Allow painted wood a full 4-week time before heavy use
- Dust frequently with a soft, dry cloth
- Clean gently using mild soap and water only
- Avoid harsh scrub pads or cleaners
- Touch up any paint chips quickly to prevent moisture damage
Conclusion
Carefully choosing the right wood paint, along with thorough preparation, priming, and painting of wooden surfaces, breathes new life into furniture, transforming it into a revitalised masterpiece. Follow these essential tips for choosing finishes, colours, and application methods to effortlessly transform faded pieces with a fresh, elegant painted finish.