Transforming Stained Dressers: A Guide To Painting Techniques

Painting a dresser that has been stained can be a great way to restore an old piece of furniture and give it a fresh look. It is important to prepare the surface properly before painting to ensure the best results. This includes removing any hardware, such as drawer pulls, and sanding the surface to create a smooth finish and help the paint adhere well. Depending on the type of paint used, a primer may also be necessary. Chalk paint, for example, requires minimal preparation and can be applied directly to most existing finishes. However, other types of paint, such as latex or oil-based paints, may require a primer for better adhesion. It is also important to choose the right type of paintbrush or paint sprayer for the job and to follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific type of paint being used.

Prep work: empty drawers, remove hardware, and clean

Painting a dresser is a perfect weekend project to give your furniture a new lease of life. Before you start painting, there are a few steps to take to ensure the best finish.

First, empty the drawers. It is much easier to work on a dresser when it is not loaded with stuff. Next, remove the hardware. Use a screwdriver to carefully remove the drawer pulls, and any other hardware. If you intend to put them back on after painting, take a few minutes to clean them. You can use a combination of equal parts vinegar and water to remove any tougher stains and gunk. If you plan to reuse the same screws, put them back into the hardware, then seal the hardware and screws in painter's tape and label them.

Finally, clean the dresser surface. Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser and remove any dust and debris. Allow the dresser to dry completely before you start painting.

Sanding: light sanding to scuff up the finish

Lightly sanding a stained dresser before painting it will smooth out imperfections and increase the adherence and durability of the paint. It is not necessary to remove the finish, but it is important to scuff it up. Before sanding, empty the drawers and use a screwdriver to carefully remove the drawer pulls. If you intend to put the pulls back on after painting, clean them well.

When sanding, move the sandpaper in the same direction as the wood grain. Going against the grain will result in nasty scratches that will show through the topcoat. Start with a medium-grit sanding block to sand off any high points, then use 100-150 grit sandpaper for the first pass, finishing with 180-220 grit sandpaper for the second pass. Remember, the higher the "grit" number, the smoother the finish. If the veneer is very thin, you may only need to do a very light sanding.

After sanding, use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser and remove any dust and debris. Allow the dresser to dry completely.

Priming: use a primer to improve paint adhesion

When painting a stained dresser, priming is an important step to ensure the paint adheres well to the surface and that the final product is long-lasting. Priming also helps to seal in tannins, which can bleed through the paint in the form of pink or brown splotches. If you are painting an antique dresser, especially in a light colour, priming is a must.

To begin, choose a primer that is compatible with a wood surface and the paint you plan to use. Bonding Boss by Dixie Belle, for example, is an adhesion and stain/odour-blocking primer in one. It comes in clear, white, and grey formulas, and can be used to coat the inside of the dresser while it lies flat on its back.

Once you have selected the appropriate primer, follow the instructions on the primer for preparation and application. Typically, you will need to sand the surface of the dresser before priming to create a smooth surface for the paint to adhere to. Use a medium-grit sanding block to sand off any high points and smooth out rough edges. Remember to always sand in the same direction as the wood grain to avoid scratches. After sanding, wipe down the dresser with a damp, lint-free cloth to remove any dust and debris.

When applying the primer, follow the same directions as you would for the paint. Move in smooth strokes that go in the same direction as the wood grain. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Using a primer will not only improve paint adhesion but also help create a smooth and long-lasting finish for your painted dresser.

Painting: use a roller and brush for even coverage

Painting a dresser that has been stained is a great way to update its look and give it a fresh coat of paint. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving even coverage using a roller and a brush:

Step 1: Prepare the Dresser

Start by removing all the drawers and hardware from the dresser. Use a screwdriver to carefully detach the drawer pulls and set them aside, as you will reinstall them later. Empty the drawers and keep them separate.

Step 2: Sand the Surface

Lightly sand the dresser surface to create a smooth base for the paint. Use a medium-grit sanding block or sandpaper to sand down any rough edges or high points. Remember to move the sandpaper in the same direction as the wood grain to avoid scratches. If the dresser has a veneer, be cautious and only use light sanding.

Step 3: Clean the Surface

Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser and remove any dust, debris, or residue. This step is crucial, as dust can compromise the finish. For tougher stains, use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water. Allow the dresser to dry completely before moving on.

Step 4: Prime the Surface (Optional)

Depending on the type of paint and the previous finish, you may need to apply a primer. Chalk paint, for example, often requires a primer to ensure better adhesion. Choose a primer that is compatible with wood surfaces and follow the instructions on the product.

Step 5: Paint with a Roller

Select a high-quality paint suitable for your project, such as chalk paint, mineral paint, or acrylic paint. Pour the paint into a roller tray and use a roller to apply it evenly to the dresser's large, flat surfaces. Work in smooth strokes, following the direction of the wood grain. Allow the paint to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 6: Paint Details with a Brush

Use a paintbrush to reach the edges, corners, and any detailed areas that the roller could not cover. Fill in these sections carefully, maintaining smooth and even brushstrokes. Again, follow the direction of the wood grain as much as possible.

Step 7: Apply Additional Coats if Needed

Depending on the paint type and coverage, you may need to apply multiple coats. Refer to the paint can's instructions for specifics. Wait for the recommended drying time between coats, usually about 2 hours or 48 hours before applying a final protective finish.

Step 8: Reinstall Hardware

Once the paint is completely dry, carefully reinstall the drawer pulls and any other hardware. Handle the dresser with care for at least a couple of weeks to allow the paint to fully cure and harden.

By following these steps and using a combination of a roller and a brush, you can achieve even paint coverage on your stained dresser, giving it a smooth and refreshed look.

Finishing: apply wax or topcoat for protection

Finishing a painted dresser is an important step to ensure its longevity and durability. The two most common methods of finishing are waxing and applying a topcoat.

Waxing is a popular choice for those seeking a specific finish, such as a dark or white wax, and who are comfortable with slightly reduced protection. Waxing can enhance the appearance of the paint, creating a desirable finish. It is important to note that wax should only be applied to furniture that will receive light use, as it does not offer the same level of protection as a topcoat. Additionally, waxing requires patience, as it takes around 30 days for the wax to cure completely.

Applying a topcoat, on the other hand, provides superior protection and is recommended for furniture that will endure heavy use. Topcoats are especially important for pieces in kitchens and bathrooms due to the potential for water exposure and high humidity. Polyacrylic is a commonly used topcoat, but it has been known to yellow over time and can emit harmful fumes if used indoors. Water-based topcoats, such as polycrylic or water-based polyurethane, are preferred by some due to their durability, ease of use, and lack of yellowing.

When deciding between waxing and applying a topcoat, it is essential to consider the intended use of the dresser and the level of protection required. For light-use dressers, waxing can be a great option to achieve a desired finish. However, for pieces that will endure heavy use or be placed in areas with high humidity, a topcoat is the better choice to ensure the longevity of the paint job.

Additionally, it is worth noting that chalk paint, a commonly used paint for dressers, requires a topcoat for added protection. Without a topcoat, chalk paint is susceptible to scratches and stains from spills, and it can be more challenging to clean.

Frequently asked questions