Isabella Flores
Painting a dresser is a great way to upcycle your furniture and give it a new lease of life. Whether you're working with a brand new dresser or an old chest of drawers, the right tools and techniques will help you achieve a smooth and long-lasting finish. But when it comes to painting a dresser, do you need to paint the inside?
The short answer is that it's up to you! Painting the inside of a dresser is a matter of personal preference. If you want to refresh the entire piece, painting the inside drawers can add a nice touch. However, it's not necessary, especially if you're working with a dresser that has a lot of storage space.
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What You'll Learn
- Prep work: Clean and sand the dresser, especially if it's old or has a shiny finish
- Choose your paint: Acrylic, chalk, or milk paint are good options
- Painting techniques: Use a brush, roller, or paint sprayer for an even finish
- Finishing touches: Consider a wax or stain finish for protection and style
- Maintenance: Keep your dresser looking new by regularly cleaning and polishing it
Prep work: Clean and sand the dresser, especially if it's old or has a shiny finish
Painting a dresser is a fun and easy DIY project that can transform a piece of furniture. If you're working with an old dresser or one with a shiny finish, there are some important prep steps to follow to ensure a smooth and long-lasting finish.
Start by removing all the drawers and hardware, such as knobs, pulls, and screws. It is also recommended to keep these in a safe place so that they are not lost. Next, clean the dresser thoroughly to remove any grime, or residue. You can use a product like Simple Green or Krud Kutter, or a combination of vinegar and water for tougher stains. After cleaning, rinse the dresser with water and dry it completely with paper towels or a lint-free cloth. This step is crucial as any remaining residue can interfere with paint adhesion.
Once the dresser is clean and dry, it's time to sand it. Sanding helps create a smooth surface and ensures the paint adheres well. If your dresser has a shiny finish, lightly sand the entire piece with fine-grit sandpaper (200+ grit). For dressers with rough spots or peeling paint, focus your sanding on those areas. If there are deep scratches, you may want to fill them with wood filler before sanding to create an even surface. When sanding, always go with the grain of the wood and avoid applying too much pressure to prevent scratching or damaging the wood.
After sanding, wipe down the dresser again to remove any dust. If possible, take the dresser outside for sanding and dusting to prevent dust from settling in your home. Finally, your dresser is ready for painting! Remember to choose a high-quality paint designed for furniture and consider using a foam roller and paintbrush for a smooth finish.
By following these prep work steps, you'll be able to achieve a professional-looking paint job that will make your old dresser look new again.
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Choose your paint: Acrylic, chalk, or milk paint are good options
When it comes to choosing the right paint for your dresser, there are several options to consider, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Here's a detailed guide to help you decide between acrylic, chalk, or milk paint for your project:
Acrylic Paint
Acrylic paint is known for its durability and excellent adhesion. It requires minimal prep work, and a top coat is usually optional due to its robust nature. When using acrylic paint, you can simply sand any rough or peeling spots on your dresser, or lightly scuff sand the entire piece if it has a shiny and smooth surface. General Finishes Milk Paint is a popular high-quality acrylic paint option that can be easily applied without extensive sanding or prep work. Acrylic paint is self-levelling, which means it creates a smooth finish with minimal brush marks. It is also available in various forms, including tubes, making it a convenient and accessible option for small projects.
Chalk Paint
Chalk paint is a water-based paint that offers a flat finish and exceptional adhesion. It requires very little prep work, and you can further enhance its durability with a wax finish. Chalk paint is known for its self-levelling properties, minimising brush marks and creating a smooth surface. If you're looking for a super matte chalky finish, chalk paint is an excellent choice. However, if you plan to place drinking glasses on the surface, consider using a top coat to prevent water rings. Annie Sloan's Chalk Paint® is a popular option, and you can find colour cards or browse their website for inspiration.
Milk Paint
Milk paint comes in two main varieties: powdered and pre-mixed liquid. The powdered form, such as Shackteau Interiors Milk Paint, needs to be mixed with water before use, resulting in a unique, textured finish. The pre-mixed liquid variety, like General Finishes Milk Paint, is thicker and easier to distress. Milk paint is an excellent option if you want the wood grain to shine through, as it tends to be more transparent than chalk paint. You can also create a layered paint finish with milk paint, especially when working with raw wood.
When deciding between acrylic, chalk, or milk paint, consider the level of prep work you're willing to undertake, the desired finish, and the overall durability you require. Each type of paint has its advantages, and your choice will depend on the specific look and functionality you want for your dresser.
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Painting techniques: Use a brush, roller, or paint sprayer for an even finish
Painting a dresser is quick and easy if you use the right tools and prep correctly. Here are some tips for achieving an even finish with a brush, roller, or paint sprayer.
Brush
When using a paintbrush, you will need at least two different brushes: a 2-inch angled brush for cutting in around windows, doors, and baseboards; and a 3- or 4-inch straight-edged brush for distributing paint across the field of a wall and smoothing it out. Hold the brush as you would grip a pencil, pressing it against the wall just enough to flex the bristles. Use the narrow edge of the paintbrush to distribute paint onto the wall with a series of overlapping strokes.
Roller
Using a roller pole can counterbalance the weight of the loaded roller head and make it easier to apply even pressure. Put the paint in a 5-gallon bucket with a grid, which will allow excess paint to be released from the roller. Load the roller with paint and work it into the paint a few times so that you have even coverage all the way around the nap. Make contact with the wall 6-12 inches away from the newly painted region to create a temporary repository of paint. Apply light pressure and roll up and down the wall.
Paint Sprayer
Paint sprayers are convenient for applying paint quickly and achieving a smooth finish. Before you start, ensure the work area is well-ventilated and cover any furniture with drop cloths or tarps. Use a face mask or respirator to prevent breathing in paint particles. The type of paint sprayer you use will depend on the project and the paint you are using. Airless sprayers are good for large surfaces and deliver paint at a rate of a half gallon to 2 gallons per minute. HVLP sprayers are suitable for detailed applications that require accuracy and a smooth finish. Pneumatic sprayers are used for precision application of paint in detailed commercial and industrial work.
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Finishing touches: Consider a wax or stain finish for protection and style
Finishing Touches: Wax or Stain Finish for Protection and Style
When it comes to giving your dresser a new look, you have several options for the finishing touches. Wax or stain finishes can provide protection and style, and it's important to choose the right one for your needs. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Wax Finish
Wax finishes are commonly used to protect and enhance the appearance of chalk-painted dressers. They add a layer of protection, making the surface more resistant to scratches and stains. Wax can be applied directly to the wood or over paint, and it gives a subtle sheen to the surface. It can also help to minimise flaws and imperfections in the finish. When choosing a wax, consider the level of sheen you want, as well as the ease of application and buffing. Some waxes may have stronger smells or require more effort to buff out.
Stain Finish
If you're looking to enhance the natural beauty of the wood, a stain finish may be a better option. Stains penetrate the wood, reducing the contrast between different types of grains and creating a more uniform appearance. When choosing a stain, you can select between oil-based and water-based options. Oil-based stains penetrate the wood deeply without raising the grain, but they can produce strong fumes. Water-based stains are more environmentally friendly and easier to clean up, but they may not penetrate the wood as deeply. Consider the colour or shade of the stain to either open up or cosy up a room.
Combining Wax and Stain
In some cases, you can combine wax and stain finishes. For example, after staining the dresser, you can apply a coat of wax to add extra protection and a subtle sheen. This combination can be especially effective if you're aiming for a vintage or antique look.
Preparation
Before applying any finish, ensure the surface is clean and free of dust and debris. If there is an old finish, you may need to strip or sand it off. If you're using a chemical stripper, be sure to wear protective gear and follow the instructions carefully. After removing the old finish, lightly sand the surface to create a tighter bond between the wood and the new finish.
Application Techniques
When applying wax or stain, always follow the manufacturer's instructions. For wax, you can use a cloth or brush to apply a thin, even coat, and then buff it out to create the desired sheen. For stain, you may need to shake the container and apply multiple coats with a paintbrush. Allow the finish to dry completely before reassembling any hardware.
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Maintenance: Keep your dresser looking new by regularly cleaning and polishing it
Painting a dresser is a great way to transform a piece of furniture and make it look new again. But maintenance is key to keeping your dresser in top condition. Here are some tips to keep your dresser looking its best:
Regular Cleaning
Over time, your dresser will accumulate dust and debris, especially if it is left untreated. Use a damp, lint-free cloth to wipe down the dresser regularly. For tougher stains, a mixture of vinegar and water can be used. Ensure the dresser is completely dry before proceeding with any other maintenance steps.
Polishing
To keep your dresser looking shiny and new, polishing is essential. Firstly, determine the finish of your dresser. If it has a wax finish, use a wax polish, and if it has an oil finish, use an oil polish. Apply the polish with a cotton washrag, wiping it into the wood in the direction of the grain.
Allow the polish to absorb for around 15-20 minutes, then use a buffing cloth to remove any excess polish. You can add another layer of polish if needed, and simply buff off the excess again.
If your dresser has been neglected and has marks or stains, you may need to use superfine steel wool to remove these before applying polish. Ensure you work in a well-ventilated area when using such products.
Prevent Sticking Drawers
If your dresser drawers are sticking, you can use products such as Big Mama's Butta or simply rub a candle along the bottoms of the drawers and anywhere they are sticking. This will add a layer of protection and help the drawers glide smoothly.
By regularly cleaning and polishing your dresser, and taking simple steps to maintain its functionality, you can keep your dresser looking new for years to come.
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Frequently asked questions
You can use chalk-based paint, acrylic paint, or latex paint. Chalk paint is water-based and has excellent adhesion, so it requires minimal prep work. Acrylic paint is durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. However, you should avoid using latex paint as it tends to peel and does not hold up well.
If the dresser has a smooth finish, you may not need to sand it. However, if there are rough spots or peeling areas, you should sand those areas only. If the dresser is very shiny, you may want to lightly sand the entire piece.
First, remove the hardware and drawers. Clean the dresser, especially if it has stains or oils. You may want to use a stain blocker if you are painting a lighter color. Then, apply a primer to ensure the paint adheres well. Finally, paint the dresser using your chosen color.
Yes, paint sprayers have become more affordable and user-friendly, making them a popular choice for painting furniture. They provide a brushless and even application of paint.
While there is no definitive answer, it is generally recommended to paint the inside of the dresser, especially if it is visible or if you want a uniform look. However, some people choose to add a decorative touch to the inside, such as lining it with pretty paper or using a different paint color. Ultimately, it is a personal preference.
