Follow these basic steps of furniture painting and NEVER have to repaint your furniture because of a failed finish! Today I’m sharing the basics of furniture painting so that you can be sure that when you paint your furniture you are doing everything possible to create a beautiful lasting finish on your furniture the first time. No shortcuts allowed! Trust me, I’ve learned the hard way. Shall we?

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Furniture Painting Made Easy | Basics

Well, it wouldn’t be normal if I didn’t have another set of eyes in the studio. Hmmm, I wonder if she could prep for me? For some strange reason, she likes this piece. Silly kitten.

SHOP THE PRODUCTS used in the makeover here.

• White Lighting wood furniture cleaner
• BOSS (block odors and stain) prevents bleed through especially with white paint!
• Mini Angle Paint Brush
• Cotton Mineral Chalk Paint
• Gator Hide (water-resistant sealer)
• Spray bottle (for White Lighting solution)
• Fine Spray Mist Bottle (for water)
• Hardware

Prepping Before Painting

I start with removing the dirt, grime, food, oils, or just anything that can accumulate on furniture and could cause the paint not to adhere properly. I use a product called White Lightning by Dixie Belle Paint Co. It comes in a crystal form. I simply mix it in warm water and add it to my spray bottle. Then I spray a liberal amount of the solution over the exterior of the furniture. Only the paintable parts. With a soft cotton cloth, I wipe back all the built-up gunk. Even if you think your furniture is clean, I challenge you to try this. It removes the stuff you can’t see and that’s important for a great finish. You may need to repeat this step several times until it is clean.

Next, you will want to remove any residual of White Lightning (wood furniture cleaner) that is left on the wood with water. I like a spray bottle filled with water once again because it’s fast and easy.

Furniture Painting and Stain Blockers

Now that your furniture is all clean, now is a good time to inspect the piece. Does it have any rough areas that need to be sanded? This step isn’t necessary if your piece is in good condition. If the finish is old and uneven, use a 220 grit sandpaper to smooth any rough areas and then wipe down with a cotton cloth to remove any leftover dust from the sanding.

Next, apply 1-2 coats of a primer, stain blocker. I like BOSS by Dixie Belle Paint Co. It comes in clear and white. Since I’m painting this piece white, it makes more sense to use the white. Using the Boss in white will make the painting with white chalk mineral paint much easier to cover on this dresser.

Furniture Painting Made Easy With Dixie Belle

Today’s furniture painting has never been easier. Furniture paint has come a long way. My personal preference is Dixie Belle’s Chalk Mineral Chalk. It’s smooth, creamy, and easy to apply. I used two coats to cover this Mid Century Dresser with absolutely no streaking. Want to learn how to do that? CLICK HERE for the video. That’s it! It’s good to go! The paint will fully cure in 30 days and it is not necessary to use a sealer. But because it’s white, use a good topcoat. That makes it my go-to for quick and easy. Even a beginner can master this look!

A Classic Look That’s Hard To Beat

Even after the painting was done and the piece was moved back inside my home, the silly kitten is still in love with it. Photobombing at its best!

 

And I think the hardware made all the difference in the new country vibe.

 

I like how this Mid Century Modern piece now has a country vibe. Sometimes all you need is a little paint and some cute cup pulls. Modern meets the country. I kinda like a country girl goes to town look! Now I’m talking about myself. Ha! Did you know that white is one of the hardest colors (it’s not a color) to paint with? I’ve got some help to take it to another level. CLICK HERE for more info.

Until the next project… xo, Do

Wait! Don’t forget to PIN THIS to your furniture painting board.