Transforming Dining Sets: Painting Tables And Chairs

Painting a dining table and chairs is a great way to update your space without breaking the bank. It can be a tricky process, especially when it comes to chairs, due to their intricate shapes and frequent use. However, with the right tools and techniques, it is possible to achieve professional-quality results. This introduction will guide you through the process, from choosing the right paint to achieving a smooth, durable finish on your dining table and chairs.

Sanding the table and chairs

Sanding is an important step in refinishing a dining table and chairs. It helps to smooth out any imperfections and ensure that the paint adheres properly. Here is a step-by-step guide to sanding your table and chairs:

Start by cleaning the table and chairs thoroughly to remove any dirt, grime, or residue. This can be done with a product like Krud Kutter, or a mixture of dish soap and water. Ensure that the furniture is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Next, you will need to choose the appropriate sandpaper grit for your project. The grit you choose will depend on the condition of your furniture and the type of finish you are aiming for. For most projects, a medium grit sandpaper, such as 150-grit, is a good starting point. This will remove any existing finish and smooth out the surface. Follow this with a finer grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit, to smooth out the surface even further and create a nice finish for painting.

When sanding, use a rotary sander or a palm sander for flat surfaces, as they will make the job quicker and easier. For curved areas or hard-to-reach spots, such as chair spindles or table legs, use a sanding sponge or wrap sandpaper around a paint stirrer to get into the tight spaces. Don't worry about making the sanding perfect, as some variation in texture will give your furniture character.

After sanding, be sure to clean the furniture again to remove any sanding dust. Use a vacuum and a tack cloth, or a damp rag, to wipe down all surfaces. This step is important to ensure that the paint adheres properly and that there are no dust particles visible under the paint.

Once the sanding and cleaning are complete, you can begin the painting process. However, keep in mind that you may need to sand lightly between coats of paint, especially if you are using chalk paint, to ensure a smooth finish.

Choosing the right paint

Type of Paint

The type of paint you choose is crucial. Avoid using wall paint, as it is not designed to adhere well to furniture. Instead, opt for paint specifically formulated for furniture painting. Chalk paint, such as Dixie Belle Mineral Chalk Paint, is a popular choice for painting dining tables and chairs. It dries quickly, and its thickness can be adjusted by thinning it with a small amount of water. Latex paint is another option, but it may not be as durable as other types of paint.

Finish and Durability

Consider the desired finish and durability of your painted surface. A topcoat or sealer can provide a protective finish and enhance the durability of your paint job. Clear Coat Flat, for example, offers a good protective finish. If you're looking for a distressed look, you can use sandpaper to achieve it after painting. Wax is another option for sealing your paint, but it may not be the most durable choice for a dining table, as it can build up over time.

Application Method

The application method of the paint is also important. You can choose between using a paintbrush or a paint sprayer. Paint sprayers can provide a faster and more efficient application, but they may not be suitable for all projects, as they can leave the surface with a slightly uneven texture. Paintbrushes offer more control and are suitable for smaller projects or detailed work.

Colour and Sheen

Select a colour that complements your dining room's decor and personal taste. Consider whether you want a glossy, semi-gloss, or matte finish, as this will impact the overall aesthetic of your dining set. Benjamin Moore Advance, Interior Waterborne Alkyd in Semi-Gloss, for example, cures to a hard, furniture-quality finish and is suitable for various surfaces.

Primer

Using a primer before painting can improve the adhesion of the paint and help achieve a smoother finish. Shellac-based primers are particularly effective at covering strong colours and dark knots. Some paints come with primer included, but if yours doesn't, it is worth taking the time to prime your furniture before painting.

Applying the paint

Painting a dining table and chairs is a great way to update your space without spending a fortune. It is a tricky process, so it is important to be careful and take your time. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to apply paint to a dining table and chairs.

Firstly, you should clean the table and chairs with a deglosser, such as Krud Kutter, to remove any residue or flaking paint. Then, sand the table and chairs with sandpaper to smooth any imperfections. You don't need to sand the furniture if it is not chipped or imperfect, but it can help the paint stick better and create a more professional finish. If you do sand the furniture, make sure to wipe it with a damp cloth to remove any dust.

Next, you can begin painting. Choose a paint that is suitable for furniture, such as chalk paint or Benjamin Moore Advance, Interior Waterborne Alkyd in Semi-Gloss. You can use a paintbrush or a paint sprayer, depending on your preference. If using a brush, try an angled synthetic brush, and if using a sprayer, make sure to test it out first to ensure a smooth finish. You may need to apply multiple coats of paint, especially if you are covering a dark colour.

After painting, you may wish to apply a topcoat for added protection. Use a foam brush to apply the topcoat, which will give a smooth finish. If your table has legs, you can use an angled brush for these and a foam brush for the tabletop.

Using a topcoat

Painting a dining table and chairs is a great way to revitalise your dining room and create a stylistically unique dining set. The process requires some special techniques to produce the best results.

When using a topcoat, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions for application and curing time. For the best durability and food safety, use a water-based polyurethane or polycrylic topcoat. These finishes are clear, non-yellowing, and safe for food-contact surfaces. Apply at least two coats, with three coats on the chair seats and tabletop for maximum durability. Sand lightly with 220-grit sandpaper between coats to ensure a smooth finish.

Before applying the topcoat, prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning. If the table and chairs have been previously painted, use sandpaper to dull the surface. Remove any dust or debris with a damp cloth or vacuum. If there are holes or divots, fill them with wood filler and sand again to create a smooth, even finish.

After the final coat of paint has been applied, let it dry completely. Lightly sand the surfaces with 220-grit sandpaper and wipe away any residue. Apply a clear polyurethane topcoat for further protection if desired. Keep the furniture out of use for at least 24 hours after the final coat to allow the paint to dry and form a tight bond with the wood.

Topcoats are essential for protecting your painted dining table and chairs and ensuring their longevity. By following these steps and allowing ample curing time, you can achieve a durable and beautiful finish.

Adding a protective finish

There are many options for sealing painted furniture, each with its own pros and cons. Wax is a popular choice for sealing painted furniture, as it enhances the colour and depth of the paint, and it is durable once fully cured. However, wax can be fragile and prone to chipping before it has cured, and it may need to be reapplied every few years. When applying wax, use a soft cloth or wax brush, and apply in circular motions. Wax takes anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes to dry, and you can buff it to a sheen once it is dry.

Another option for sealing painted furniture is a water-based sealer or topcoat. These add a layer of protection without altering the colour of the paint. They are also less toxic and easier to clean up compared to oil-based sealers. When using a water-based sealer, apply thin coats, letting each coat dry completely before adding the next. Most water-based sealers dry very quickly, so it is important to avoid touching up mistakes when the sealer is already drying. If you notice any drips or imperfections, let the sealer dry completely and then sand them out with fine-grit sandpaper before adding another coat.

Other options for sealing painted furniture include hemp oil, which is easy to apply but may not be as durable as wax, and oil-based sealers such as polyurethane, which can amber over time and affect the colour of the paint.

It is important to consider the type of paint used when choosing a sealer, as some paints do not require a topcoat. For example, chalk paint is porous and can be sealed with wax, while latex paint cures hard and may not need a sealer.

Frequently asked questions