With the saturation of all types of paints on the market right now, it’s easier than ever to update some of your old furniture quicker. And not just with paints, but with stains also.
Just a few questions to ask yourself:
How do you determine whether to paint a piece of furniture or not?
How valuable is the piece?
Is it an antique?
Will you use the piece as is?
Would you enjoy it more if it is refinished?
Does it fit your decor as is?
If you don’t use it, what will happen to it?
Some people have the opinion that wood furniture shouldn’t be painted. My philosophy in general is, if if isn’t an antique which has worth as is, and you aren’t going to use it, paint and enjoy.
Paint is a very cheap way to update an item, whether it’s your walls or a piece of furniture.
And, if you get tired of the color, it’s easy to change.
There’s not one brand of paint or stain which is best. Although I am familiar with many brands, in no way am I an expert. I seem to use different brands for different projects to achieve the look I’m going for.
When you have a piece you want to refinish, think about the look you want, where and how much use it will get, how much time do you want to spend on it?
If you want to learn more about painting, there’s so many options for you, but remember when you ask someone a question, most of the time it is their opinion. There are no right or wrong answers. Facebook groups can be good to find out information, but usually these aren’t experts either.
Check any local retailers – most of the time they may have attended extensive classes to know more about the paint and how to use what they sell. Classes are sometimes offered.
Check your favorite blogs (like mine) to get ideas on paints, stains, and ideas for your pieces.
Have proper equipment for the prep work and painting. Brushes, sand paper, lint free rags, etc.
Although so many paints advertise “no prep” – there’s always some prep. Maybe it’s not the long hours of stripping off the old finish, but you can’t just pick up a piece and paint it, then expect it to be beautiful with a lasting finish.
There’s not way to tell you how to prep. So many factors determine this, but remember you always have to have it clean. I usually do a little sanding on anything.
Is the piece already painted, stained, unfinished, have a lacquer finish? These all determine how to get it ready to paint.
So when someone asks me, what paint should I use – I go back to all of the above factors.
What’s the difference in paints – chalk, chalk type, milk, acrylic, latex? Although it’s easy to tell you the difference, it’s not always easy to tell you which type is best for you without knowing what your are doing and how you are using it?
Also, you have so many choices for trims, new hardware, and painters tape to really change up your piece.
So now are you confused more than ever? Yes – it can be.
Now – to paint or not to paint? What are you going to to do?
I’ve included affiliate links to Amazon for you to find some products easier. I may receive a small commission, but the price is the same for you. It just helps my blog out.
As I have said before, I don’t have a green thumb. With help from other blog friends and great shops, I am able to maintain several plants and flowers with a little guidance. I’m going to share a few ideas on how to use colorful containers around your home, inside and out. A visit to…
Cleaning and keeping a stainless steel sink shiny can be tricky. Let me show you How To Clean A Stainless Steel Sink With 2 Household Items. And, I bet you already have the two things needed to clean it, without chemicals, in your pantry. White Vinegar and baking soda is all you need. Through the years…
Using Faux Succulents Do you love the look of faux succulents? The good news is that faux succulents to DIY for Home Decor can be for everyday decorating or just even seasonal. With these simple DIY craft projects and ideas, your home can easily be decorated in all different types of faux succulents. Many of…
Creating your own DIY Fall Decor is a fun way to decorate your home on a budget. It’s also a super simple way to incorporate a unique look that you can rest your hat on knowing that you did 100% yourself. Think of adding more than just a few pumpkins to complete the look. …
Time for a quick change. With the promise of spring and warm weather, I am taking my living room to a more neutral tone. Although with that it’s always easy to add something for a pop of color. It will time for a little Easter Decor in just a few weeks. With…
Day 2 – 12 Days til Christmas A properly set table always includes a napkin. Here’s a fun little one to impress your guests. It just takes a bit of practice and patience. Use a square napkin, a cotton or cotton blend works better. If you use a polyester or other synthetic fabric,…