Transforming Your Dresser: Painting Over Paint

Painting a dresser that has already been painted is a great way to restore an old piece of furniture and give it a fresh look. Whether it's a family heirloom, an antique, or a simple dresser that needs an update, repainting it can be a therapeutic and cost-effective way to transform your furniture. With the right tools and preparation, you can achieve a smooth and modern finish that will last for years to come. This guide will take you through the process step-by-step, offering tips on everything from choosing the right paint to sealing and protecting your newly painted dresser.

Prep work: Empty drawers, remove hardware, and clean the dresser

Painting a dresser that is already painted can be a fun and rewarding project. The prep work is important to ensure a smooth and successful painting process. Here is a detailed guide to help you prepare your dresser for a new coat of paint:

Empty the drawers:

Start by removing all items from the dresser drawers. This step is crucial as it makes the subsequent steps much easier. A dresser loaded with stuff can be cumbersome to work on, and you want to ensure you can access all surfaces of the dresser easily.

Remove hardware:

Using a screwdriver, carefully remove any hardware, such as drawer pulls or knobs. If you intend to reuse the hardware, take a few minutes to clean them thoroughly. You can use a mild cleaning solution and a soft cloth to remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time. If you plan to update your hardware, you can consider doing so during this step, giving them a fresh look before reinstalling them later.

Clean the dresser:

It is essential to clean the dresser thoroughly before painting. Use a mild cleaner compatible with the material of your dresser. Spray or wipe down all surfaces, including the inside of the drawers, to remove any stains, oils, grime, or dirt. This step ensures that there is no residue left on the dresser that could interfere with paint adhesion. After cleaning, dry the dresser with paper towels or a lint-free cloth. For tougher stains or gunk, you can use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water.

Sand the dresser (optional):

Depending on the condition of your dresser, you may need to sand it lightly. If there are significant chips or deep scratches, use wood filler to repair them before sanding. Use medium-grit sandpaper (150-grit) to lightly sand the dresser, scuffing up the previous finish and smoothing out any inconsistencies or rough edges. If the previous finish was glossy, ensure you sand enough to remove the sheen, as this can affect paint adhesion. After sanding, use a damp cloth to remove all sanding dust and any remaining dirt or grime.

Prime the dresser (optional):

Priming the dresser is optional but recommended, especially if you are using certain types of paint. Primer helps your paint adhere better and covers any stains or discolourations in the wood. Choose a primer suitable for the type of paint you will be using and follow the manufacturer's instructions for application. Allow the primer to dry completely before proceeding to the painting stage.

Once you have completed these steps, your dresser is ready for painting! Remember to choose a suitable paint type and colour for your project, and always work in a well-ventilated area when painting.

Sanding: Lightly sand the dresser to smoothen the surface

Sanding is an important step in the process of painting a dresser that is already painted. It helps to create a smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to and ensures a more professional and even finish. Here are some detailed instructions on how to lightly sand the dresser to smoothen the surface:

Start by evaluating the condition of your dresser. If there are any rough spots, peeling areas, or deep scratches, these should be addressed before sanding. Use medium-grit sandpaper, such as 150-grit, to lightly sand the entire dresser. Focus on scuffing up the previous finish and smoothing out any inconsistencies. If the dresser has a glossy finish, ensure you sand enough to remove the sheen, as this can affect the adhesion of the new paint. If necessary, use a finer grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit, for a smoother finish.

During the sanding process, pay attention to corners and crevices, as these areas can be prone to paint buildup, which may result in an uneven finish. Use a sanding block or an electric sander for larger surfaces, and a sanding block or fine-grit sandpaper for more detailed areas. Ensure you work in a well-ventilated area and wear the appropriate protective gear, such as a face mask and safety goggles, to avoid inhaling dust particles.

After sanding, it is crucial to remove all the sanding dust and any remaining grime, grease, or dirt. Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser, ensuring it is completely clean and dry before proceeding to the next step. If there are any tough stains or gunk, a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water can be effective for removal.

Once the dresser is sanded and cleaned, you can proceed to the next steps in the painting process, such as priming or directly applying the new paint. Remember, a light sanding between each coat of paint can further enhance the smoothness and durability of the final finish.

Priming: Use a primer to help paint adhere better

When painting a dresser that is already painted, using a primer can help the new paint adhere better to the surface. Primer is especially useful if the previous finish is glossy, as this could prevent the new paint from adhering well.

There are several types of primers available, including water-based (latex), oil-based, and shellac primers. If you are using a light-coloured paint, it is recommended to avoid using polyurethane primer as it may cause yellowing over time. Oil-based primers are suitable for use under oil-based or water-based paints and provide thick coverage. However, they are slow-drying and can release VOCs. Shellac primers are effective for covering stains, smoke, smells, and other issues, but they also release VOCs.

It is generally recommended to apply one coat of primer before painting, but porous surfaces or surfaces with dark colours may require two coats. Primer can also be tinted to match the colour of the topcoat, reducing the number of coats needed and allowing the colour to stand out without competing with bottom colours.

After applying the primer, it is important to lightly sand the surface again with fine-grit sandpaper before applying the paint. This will help create a smooth and seamless finish.

By using a primer and properly preparing the surface, you can improve the adhesion of the paint, resulting in a more durable and professional-looking finish.

Painting: Use a roller for large areas and a brush for details

Painting a dresser that is already painted can be a fun and creative process. To achieve a smooth and modern finish, it is recommended to use a combination of a roller for large areas and a brush for detailed sections and edges.

Before beginning the painting process, it is important to prepare the dresser. Empty the drawers and remove the hardware, such as drawer pulls and handles, using a screwdriver. If you plan to reuse the hardware, clean it thoroughly. Next, inspect the dresser for any serious damage, such as significant chips or deep scratches, and fill them with wood filler if necessary.

The next step is to sand the dresser lightly. Use medium-grit sandpaper (150-grit) to scuff up the previous finish and smooth out any inconsistencies. If the previous finish was glossy, ensure you sand enough to remove the sheen, as this will help the new paint adhere better. After sanding, use a rag to wipe down the dresser and remove any sanding dust, grime, grease, or dirt.

Now, you can begin the painting process. Prepare your paint by following the manufacturer's instructions. If using chalk paint, you may need to thin it with a small amount of water to achieve the desired consistency. Pour the paint into a small container or tray, which will make it easier to hold and work with.

Use a roller with rounded ends to apply the paint to large, flat surfaces of the dresser. A foam roller can help prevent roller marks and create a smooth finish. Work in sections, applying a normal amount of pressure on the first pass and a very light touch on the second pass to even out the paint.

For detailed areas, such as edges, grooves, and rounded surfaces, use a high-quality angled brush. Paintbrushes are ideal for filling in the areas that the roller may have missed and for fixing any drips or excess paint. Allow the paint to dry completely, and apply additional coats as needed, typically one to three coats, depending on the paint used.

Finally, once the paint is completely dry, reinstall your hardware. Allow the paint to cure for a couple of weeks to achieve its hardest finish. You can also consider sealing your dresser to provide extra protection and create a wipeable, easy-to-clean surface.

Finishing: Seal with wax or varnish for protection and shine

Sealing your dresser provides extra protection for your finish and creates a wipeable, easy-to-clean surface. If you are using a white or extremely light color of paint, avoid using polyurethane to seal your finish as it can yellow over time. Instead, opt for a water-based topcoat like Minwax Polycrylic, which is easier to clean up and has fewer fumes. Another option that can be used on any color, including whites, is furniture wax. Minwax Finishing Wax is a great choice for this purpose. Simply wipe it on with a cloth or cheesecloth, let it dry for 10-15 minutes, and then buff it with a clean cloth until you achieve your desired level of shine.

If you prefer a more natural look, you can consider sanding and waxing your dresser. However, wax may not provide the desired level of protection for everyday use surfaces like kitchen or dining tables. In such cases, a polyurethane top coat is a better option as it offers durability and easy maintenance with its quick-drying and water-based formula.

For a completely different look, you can also try using a glaze instead of wax to create an antique look. Apply the glaze and then wipe off the excess with a damp rag. The glaze itself acts as a sealer, but you can add an extra layer of protection by applying a coat of polyurethane on top.

If you're looking for a finish with a slight shine, you might want to explore options like Polyvine Satin Varnish, which provides a subtle 'sheen' without being glossy. Alternatively, for a completely flat finish, you can try Modern Masters Dead Flat Varnish, which dries quickly and has no shine at all.

Frequently asked questions