How to Prep for Paint

Preparing furniture for paint is a crucial step to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish. Whether you’re upcycling an old piece or giving a fresh look to a sturdy but outdated item, proper preparation can make all the difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

Firstly, the furniture must be thoroughly cleaned. Dirt, grease, and grime can prevent paint from adhering properly. Use a mixture of warm water and mild detergent to wipe down all surfaces. For stubborn spots, a degreaser can be very effective, such as Simple Green or Krud Kutter. Once cleaned, rinse with fresh water and let it dry completely. This step ensures that any contaminants that might hinder paint adhesion are removed.

Next, it’s time to sand the furniture. Sanding not only smooths out any imperfections but also provides a rough surface for the paint to grip onto. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper (around 120-grit) to remove any old finish or gloss, then switch to a finer grit (around 220-grit) for a smooth finish. Pay attention to all surfaces, including edges and corners. When preparing furniture for painting, addressing imperfections and dents is crucial for achieving a smooth and professional finish. Begin by inspecting your piece of furniture closely, identifying any dents, scratches, or holes that need attention. Once pinpointed, select a high quality wood filler (my personal favorite is the Bondo Spot Glazing Putty, it doesn’t crack and drys quickly for a smooth finish). Using a putty knife, or your fingertip, apply the wood filler generously to the imperfections, ensuring you fill them completely. Smooth the filler with the knife, leveling it with the surrounding surface. Allow the filler to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which usually ranges from a 15-20 minutes to overnight. Once dried, sand the filled areas gently with fine-grit sandpaper until they are flush with the rest of the surface. I like to use these sponges or this detail sander to sand down the filled areas. This step is essential for creating an even texture that will take paint smoothly. After sanding, wipe the furniture with a tack cloth or damp cloth to remove all dust particles.

The final step (kind of) before painting is to apply a primer. Primer helps to seal the wood and provides a uniform base for the paint. Choose a primer suited to the type of paint you will be using, as well as the type of material you are painting. Apply the primer evenly with a brush, roller or spray gun and let it dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Priming is essential in achieving good adhesion and paint coverage. **Many times, priming your piece will highlight other areas that need to be filled. Do not be discouraged! Just expect to fill again after priming.. and sometimes after the first coat of paint too!**

You can check out my favorite primers and when I suggest using them here.

With these steps complete, your furniture is now ready for painting. By taking the time to properly clean, sand, and prime your piece, you are now ready to paint your piece! Check out this post to learn how to paint your piece like a professional.