Transforming A Dresser: Achieving An Antique Look With Paint

Painting an antique dresser can be an intimidating task, but it's a great way to bring new life to an old piece of furniture. Before starting, it's important to evaluate the dresser to ensure that altering its appearance won't devalue it. Once you've decided to proceed, the next step is to prepare the dresser for painting. This includes emptying the drawers, removing the hardware, and cleaning the surface to ensure the paint will adhere properly. When choosing a paint type, chalk paint is a popular option for antique dressers as it can give a soft, vintage look. However, other types of paint such as milk paint or acrylic paint can also be used. To create an antique look, you can use a variety of techniques such as distressing, layering different colours, or using wax finishes.

Evaluate the dresser and prep it for painting

Painting an antique dresser is a great way to bring new life to an old piece of furniture. However, before you start painting, there are a few important steps to take to evaluate the dresser and prepare it for painting.

First, empty all the drawers. Working on the dresser will be much easier when it's not loaded with stuff. Then, carefully remove any hardware, such as drawer pulls or knobs, using a screwdriver. If you plan to reuse the hardware, take a few minutes to clean it well. Next, evaluate whether the dresser needs sanding. If the dresser has a smooth finish and is in good shape, you may not need to sand it. However, if there are rough edges or you want to give the paint grooves to create a bond, use a medium-grit sanding block or sandpaper to sand off any high points and smooth out any inconsistencies. If the previous finish was glossy, be sure to sand enough to remove the sheen, as this could affect the paint's adhesion.

After sanding, it's crucial to remove any dust, debris, or leftover grime, grease, or dirt. Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser and ensure it is completely clean and dry before painting. If you're dealing with tough stains or gunk, a combination of equal parts vinegar and water can help remove them. You can also use a product like Krud Kutter or Simple Green for a clean, oil-free finish.

If you're using chalk paint, consider using a primer to help the paint stick better and seal in the first coat. This is especially important if you plan to paint the dresser a lighter colour, as it will prevent any tannins from bleeding through. Allow the primer plenty of dry time, at least overnight, before painting.

By following these steps, you'll ensure that your antique dresser is properly evaluated and prepared for painting, setting yourself up for a successful and long-lasting paint job.

Choose the right paint and application tools

Painting an antique dresser is a fun and creative way to restore an old piece of furniture. To achieve a faux antique look, the right paint and tools are essential.

Firstly, it is important to evaluate whether the dresser needs sanding. If the dresser has a nice smooth finish, you can skip this step, especially if you are using chalk paint, which adheres to most existing finishes. However, if there are rough edges or an uneven surface, use medium-grit sandpaper (150-220 grit) to smooth it out and remove any glossy sheen. This step ensures that the new paint will adhere well. After sanding, ensure the surface is clean and free of dust, grime, grease, or dirt, as these can compromise the finish. Use a damp, lint-free cloth and a combination of vinegar and water to remove tough stains.

When choosing paint, chalk paint is a popular choice for antique dressers as it offers a soft, vintage look. It is also affordable and requires minimal prep work. However, consider using a primer with chalk paint to ensure better adhesion and to seal the first coat. You can also use mineral paint, which comes in various colours and can be applied with a roller or paintbrush. If you want to create an antique finish, choose two complementary colours and apply them in layers, distressing the top layer to reveal the colour beneath.

For application, you can use a paintbrush, roller, or paint sprayer. Paintbrushes are great for furniture with crevices, as they allow for better control and can accentuate brush strokes, adding character to vintage pieces. Paint sprayers provide a brushless, even finish but may require more prep work and cleanup.

Additionally, consider using wax to add depth and protection to your painted surface. You can use clear wax all over the dresser and dark wax around the edges and details to create an antique finish. Buff the wax with a lint-free cloth until it is no longer sticky. You can also apply antique wax after the paint has dried to enhance the aged look.

Clean and sand the dresser

To achieve a faux antique look when painting a dresser, it is important to clean and sand the dresser beforehand. This process ensures that the paint adheres well and that the final product has a smooth and desirable finish.

Start by emptying all the drawers and removing the drawer pulls with a screwdriver. If you plan to reuse the pulls, take a few minutes to clean them thoroughly. Next, evaluate the dresser to determine if sanding is necessary. If the dresser has a smooth finish and is in good shape, sanding may not be required. However, if there are rough edges or inconsistencies in the finish, sanding can help create a smoother surface.

If you decide to sand the dresser, use medium-grit sandpaper (around 150 grit) to lightly sand the surface. You can use a sanding block or an electric palm sander for this step. Go over the dresser with the sandpaper, focusing on smoothing out any rough spots or inconsistencies. If the previous finish was glossy, ensure you sand enough to remove the sheen, as this can affect the paint's adhesion. After sanding, use a quick wipe-down with an old rag to remove the majority of the sanding dust.

To ensure the dresser is thoroughly cleaned, use a spray-on cleaner like Krud Kutter or Simple Green. Spray the dresser with the cleaner and then wipe it down with a lint-free cloth. This step ensures that the surface is free of any remaining dust, grime, grease, or dirt, which is important for achieving a clean and oil-free finish. You can also use a combination of equal parts vinegar and water to remove tougher stains and gunk. Allow the dresser to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Once the dresser is clean and dry, you can proceed with the next steps of your faux antique painting project, such as priming or painting. Remember to refer to the specific product instructions for your chosen paint to ensure optimal results.

Apply the paint

Painting your dresser with a faux antique look is a fun and creative project. It's important to prepare your dresser before you start painting. Empty the drawers, remove the drawer pulls, and clean the hardware if you plan to reuse it. Decide whether your dresser needs sanding or not. If the finish is nice and smooth, you can skip sanding, but if you want to give the paint grooves to adhere to, you might want to sand it lightly. Use a medium-grit sanding block or sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and inconsistencies. If the previous finish was glossy, make sure to sand enough to remove the sheen, as this will help the new paint adhere better. Wipe down the dresser with a damp, lint-free cloth to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. For tougher stains, use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Allow the dresser to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Now it's time to choose your paint. Chalk paint is a popular choice for antique dressers as it can give a soft, vintage look, and it adheres to most existing finishes. You can also use other types of paint such as milk paint, acrylic paint, or mineral paint. If you're using a different type of paint, such as a lacquer or a shiny finish, you'll need to sand the dresser more thoroughly to ensure the paint adheres well. Consider using a primer, especially if you're using chalk paint, as it will help the paint stick better and seal the first coat. You can also add a tablespoon of water to thin out the chalk paint to your desired consistency.

When it comes to applying the paint, you have a few options. You can use a paintbrush, a roller, or a paint sprayer. If you want visible brush strokes, go for a paintbrush, but if you prefer a smoother finish, a paint sprayer might be a better option. Load your brush or roller with paint, and start applying it to the dresser. Work in small sections, and follow the grain of the wood if there is one. Start with the edges and corners, and then move towards the centre. If you're using a paint sprayer, make sure to tape off any areas you don't want to get painted, like the insides of drawers. Allow the paint to dry completely between coats. You might need to apply two or more coats, depending on the coverage you want and the type of paint you're using.

Once the paint is dry, you can add a layer of protection and a bit of sheen by applying a wax finish. This step is optional, but it can enhance the antique look. You can use clear wax, dark wax, or a combination of both. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, and use a soft cotton cloth or a lint-free cloth to buff the wax onto the dresser. Focus the dark wax on the details and edges, and use the clear wax on the larger surfaces. You can also use a light antique wax to give your dresser a slightly distressed, antiqued look. Apply it with light "X" motion strokes, covering the entire piece, and then buff it with a cloth until it's no longer sticky.

Seal and finish the dresser

Once you've achieved the desired paint finish on your antique dresser, sealing and finishing the piece will ensure its longevity and protect your hard work. Here are the steps to seal and finish your freshly painted antique dresser:

Clean and Prepare the Dresser Surface

Before applying any sealants or finishes, it's important to ensure the dresser surface is clean and prepared adequately. Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser, removing any dust, debris, or grime that may have accumulated during the painting process. Allow the dresser to dry completely. This step is crucial to achieving a smooth and consistent finish.

Choose a Sealing Method

There are several options for sealing and protecting your painted dresser. You can use a wax finish, such as a clear or dark wax, which will not only enhance the antique look but also protect the paint. Another option is to use a furniture salve, such as Wise Owl Paint's Furniture Salve, which will nourish the wood and seal the paint simultaneously. You can also use a product specifically designed to seal paint, such as BOSS, which is recommended when painting over antique wood with lighter colours like white.

Apply the Sealant

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the chosen sealant. For wax finishes, use a soft cotton cloth or a brush to apply a thin, even layer of wax across the entire dresser. Focus on details and edges if using a dark wax to create an antiqued effect. For furniture salves or paint sealers, refer to the product instructions for application methods and drying times.

Buff and Polish

Once the sealant has been applied and allowed to dry according to the manufacturer's instructions, use a lint-free cloth to buff the dresser gently. Buffing will remove any excess product and create a smooth, seamless finish. For wax finishes, buffing will also create a subtle sheen, enhancing the antique look.

Reattach Hardware

After the sealant has dried and been buffed, you can reattach any decorative hardware, such as drawer pulls or knobs. Cleaning the hardware before reattaching it will ensure the final product looks cohesive and authentic.

Sealing and finishing your antique dresser is a crucial step in the painting process, ensuring the piece is protected and your hard work is preserved for years to come.

Frequently asked questions