How To Paint Furniture: A Beginner's Guide
Painting furniture is an excellent way to breathe new life into wardrobes, cabinets, and other DIY projects. Whether you’re looking to refresh your kitchen cabinets or add a personal touch to a bespoke wardrobe, painting can completely transform the look and feel of your space.
At Cutsmart, we specialise in bespoke cut materials like MDF, plywood, veneered, and decorative boards, which can be customised to fit your specific needs and are perfect for painting.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of painting furniture, from understanding your material to choosing the right tools, prepping the surface, and achieving a professional finish.
Preparing for Furniture Painting
Understanding the Material You’re Painting
The first step to successfully painting furniture is understanding the material you're working with. At Cutsmart, we offer a range of bespoke surfaces, including MDF, plywood, and veneered boards, each with its own properties.
MDF, for example, is a smooth, engineered wood that’s perfect for painting but requires proper sealing to prevent the edges from absorbing paint. Plywood, on the other hand, has a more natural grain, which can add texture but may need additional sanding for a flawless finish.
Veneered boards, with their thin layer of real wood veneer, offer a beautiful surface but need to be handled with care to avoid damaging the finish. By knowing your material, you can choose the right paint and primer to ensure your project looks its best.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
When it comes to painting furniture, having the right tools makes all the difference. For most furniture painting projects, you’ll need brushes or rollers, sandpaper, primer, and paint. We recommend using synthetic brushes for water-based paints and natural bristle brushes for oil-based paints.
Rollers are great for larger, flat surfaces like wardrobe doors or cabinet panels, while brushes help with detailed work or smaller areas.
The type of paint you choose will depend on the material. For MDF and plywood, a water-based acrylic or latex paint works well, providing a smooth, even finish. If you're working with veneered surfaces, oil-based paints can help ensure durability and adherence, especially in high-traffic areas like kitchen cabinets.
Don’t forget to pick up a primer specifically suited to your material – this will create a good base for the paint to stick to and will improve the longevity of your finish.
Prepping the Surface
Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth, professional finish when painting furniture. Start by sanding the surface to remove any rough patches or imperfections. For MDF, it’s important to sand lightly, as the material is smooth but can absorb paint quickly along the edges.
Plywood may require more thorough sanding to ensure that the grain is even and ready to be painted. Veneered surfaces, being delicate, should be handled with care to avoid sanding through the veneer layer.
After sanding, clean the surface with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. If your board has any scratches, dents, or imperfections, fill them with wood filler, then sand again once the filler has dried. This step ensures that your paint will go on smoothly and look even.
Applying the right primer is essential for different materials. For MDF, we recommend a water-based primer to seal the edges and prevent the material from soaking up too much paint.
Plywood should be primed with a product that prevents bleeding through the grain, while veneered surfaces benefit from an oil-based primer for better adhesion. By taking the time to properly prep your surface, you’ll ensure a flawless finish and extend the lifespan of your painted furniture.
How to Paint Wooden Furniture
Painting MDF Furniture
Painting MDF presents a few specific challenges due to its smooth surface and porous edges. The surface is typically easy to paint, but the edges can absorb paint unevenly, leading to a rough finish. To achieve a professional look, it’s essential to properly seal and prime MDF before painting.
Start by sealing the edges with a special MDF sealer or simply using wood filler on any exposed edges. Once sealed, lightly sand the entire surface to ensure smoothness. After sanding, apply a high-quality primer designed for MDF to create an even base for your paint.
Priming also helps prevent the paint from soaking into the surface, which could result in patchy coverage.
For the best results on MDF, use water-based acrylic or latex paints, which dry quickly and provide a smooth, durable finish. Apply the paint in thin, even coats using a foam roller or brush, and sand lightly between coats to eliminate any imperfections. Be sure to allow adequate drying time between each coat for the most even finish.
Painting Plywood Furniture
Plywood has a different surface texture compared to MDF, with visible wood grain that can add character to the final painted piece. However, this grain needs to be handled carefully to avoid imperfections. Start by filling any knots, gaps, or imperfections with wood filler, then sand the plywood surface thoroughly to smooth it out.
When prepping plywood for paint, it's essential to seal the grain to avoid uneven paint absorption. Apply a primer specifically designed for wood to seal the surface and create a uniform base for painting.
Oil-based primers work well for plywood, especially for exterior applications, but water-based primers can also be used for interior projects.
When it comes to paint, latex or oil-based paints both work well on plywood. Use a brush or foam roller to apply thin, even coats, and allow each coat to dry fully before adding another. For a long-lasting result, consider applying a protective topcoat, such as polyurethane or varnish, which adds durability and helps resist wear and tear.
Painting Veneered Boards
Veneered boards require extra care when painting because their thin surface layer can be easily damaged. Unlike MDF or plywood, sanding too aggressively on veneered boards can wear through the veneer, exposing the substrate underneath.
Therefore, it’s important to sand lightly, using fine-grit sandpaper, to create a smooth surface without damaging the veneer.
Before painting, apply a light primer suitable for veneered surfaces. This step ensures that the paint adheres evenly and prevents any imperfections from showing through. Oil-based primers tend to work best for veneered surfaces because they bond well and provide a durable foundation.
When painting veneered boards, use thin layers of paint and allow ample drying time between coats. A smooth, durable finish can be achieved by sanding lightly between coats and applying multiple thin layers of paint. As with other materials, consider finishing the piece with a protective topcoat to seal the paint and enhance its longevity.
Furniture Painting Techniques for a Professional Finish
Choosing the Right Paint and Finish
The finish you choose for your painted furniture plays a significant role in its final appearance and durability. Matte finishes are popular for a subtle, non-reflective look that works well for rustic or vintage styles. Satin finishes offer a slight sheen and are ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchen cabinets or wardrobes, as they’re easy to clean and maintain.
Gloss finishes provide the most reflective surface and are perfect for modern, sleek designs, offering a durable and washable surface.
When choosing paint for specific furniture projects, water-based acrylics work well for most DIY furniture projects due to their quick drying time and ease of use. For high-use items like kitchen cabinets or wardrobes, oil-based paints can offer superior durability and a smooth finish, though they require longer drying times.
Colour selection is another key factor. Consider colours that complement your home’s existing interior design and furniture. Neutrals like white, grey, or beige are versatile and timeless, while bold colours like navy, emerald, or mustard can make a statement and add personality to your space.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting
To achieve a flawless finish, follow these steps:
Prepare the surface: Sand the furniture lightly to create a smooth surface for the primer and paint to adhere to. Clean off any dust or debris.
Apply primer: Use a suitable primer for the material you’re painting, whether MDF, plywood, or veneered boards. Apply an even coat and allow it to dry fully.
Start painting: Using a high-quality brush or foam roller, apply your first thin coat of paint. Avoid overloading the brush or roller, as this can lead to drips or brush marks. Let the first coat dry completely.
Sand between coats: After each coat dries, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections. Clean off the dust before applying the next coat.
Apply additional coats: Repeat the process of painting and sanding between coats until you achieve the desired coverage and smoothness.
Finishing touches: Once the final coat is dry, apply a topcoat or protective finish (if needed) to seal the paint and add extra durability, especially for high-use furniture.
Allow the painted furniture to dry completely before using it to ensure the finish cures properly.
Creative Painting Ideas for Wardrobes and Cabinets
For those looking to add a unique touch to wardrobes or cabinets, creative painting techniques can make your furniture stand out.
Two-tone finishes, where the doors and frames are painted in contrasting colours, can add a modern and stylish edge to wardrobes. For a bold look, try colour blocking by using complementary shades in geometric patterns.
Distressed effects are also popular for adding a vintage or rustic feel to furniture. This technique involves lightly sanding the edges and corners after painting to reveal the material underneath, creating a worn, aged appearance.
Stencils and decorative techniques like freehand painting can be used to add intricate designs or patterns to wardrobes and cabinets. Consider painting floral motifs, geometric shapes, or even personal monograms to make your furniture truly unique. This approach works particularly well on bespoke pieces that are intended to serve as statement pieces in your home.
Repainting Old or Damaged Wooden Furniture
How to Repaint Wooden Furniture
When repainting old or damaged wooden furniture, proper preparation is essential to ensure the new paint adheres well and provides a smooth, professional finish. Begin by removing any old paint or varnish using a chemical paint stripper or by sanding the surface down.
For pieces with thick layers of paint, a heat gun can also be used to soften the old finish for easier removal.
After the old paint or varnish is removed, sand the surface thoroughly to create a smooth, clean base for the new paint. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper to remove any stubborn paint or imperfections, then move to a finer grit for a smooth finish.
Fill any cracks, dents, or imperfections with wood filler, and sand again once it has dried. This ensures that the surface is level and free from damage before you begin painting.
Once the furniture is prepped, apply a primer suitable for the type of wood you’re working with. This helps the new paint adhere better and provides a more even finish. When painting over previously finished wood, use a high-quality bonding primer to ensure the paint sticks properly, especially if the surface is glossy or varnished.
Sand lightly between coats to remove any bumps or brush marks, and apply multiple thin coats of paint for the best results.
Best Way to Paint Cabinets and Wardrobes
Painting large surfaces like kitchen cabinets or bedroom wardrobes requires careful attention to detail to achieve a smooth, even finish. Begin by removing all hardware, hinges, and doors to make it easier to paint all the surfaces evenly. This also prevents paint from getting on the hardware and fittings.
To avoid streaks or uneven finishes, use a foam roller for large, flat areas and a high-quality brush for detailed sections. Apply thin coats of paint and avoid overloading the roller or brush to prevent drips.
If you're working with a glossy surface, lightly sand between coats to ensure better adhesion and a more polished finish. Patience is key—allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next to avoid dragging or streaking the paint.
When painting around hardware and fittings, mask off areas with painter's tape to protect them from accidental drips. For hinges or areas with intricate details, use a small brush to apply paint in even strokes without oversaturating the surface. Once the paint has dried, reinstall the hardware and doors, making sure the paint is fully cured to avoid any damage.
Painting Furniture FAQs
What is the best way to paint MDF furniture?
To paint MDF furniture, first, sand the surface lightly and seal the edges with wood filler or primer to prevent them from absorbing too much paint. Apply a primer specifically designed for MDF, and then use water-based acrylic or latex paint for a smooth finish. Multiple thin coats and sanding between each coat will help ensure an even, professional result.
Can I paint over varnished or previously finished wood?
Yes, you can paint over varnished or previously finished wood, but proper preparation is key. Sand the surface lightly to remove the gloss and create a rougher texture for the paint to adhere to. Apply a bonding primer to ensure good adhesion, then apply thin coats of paint, allowing each to dry fully before adding the next.
How do I avoid brush marks when painting furniture?
To avoid brush marks, use high-quality brushes or foam rollers, apply thin coats of paint, and sand lightly between coats. Keep the brush or roller lightly loaded with paint to avoid overapplication, and always brush or roll in long, even strokes.
What kind of paint should I use on kitchen cabinets or wardrobes?
For kitchen cabinets and wardrobes, use a durable paint that can withstand wear and tear. Water-based acrylic paints or oil-based paints are ideal because they provide a smooth, durable finish. Satin or semi-gloss finishes are recommended for easy cleaning and maintenance.
How do I prep veneered boards for painting?
Veneered boards need careful preparation before painting. Lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the veneer. Apply a primer suitable for veneer to ensure good paint adhesion. Once primed, use multiple thin coats of paint, sanding lightly between coats for a smooth finish.
Do I need a primer when painting furniture?
Yes, using a primer is important when painting furniture. It helps the paint adhere better, provides an even surface for painting, and prevents stains or previous colours from bleeding through. For MDF, plywood, or previously finished surfaces, primer is especially crucial.
How long should I wait between coats of paint?
The drying time between coats depends on the type of paint used. Typically, you should wait 2-4 hours for water-based paints and 6-8 hours for oil-based paints. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.
Can I use the same techniques for painting furniture as for painting walls?
While some techniques overlap, painting furniture requires more attention to detail. Use thinner coats, sand between layers, and choose paints with higher durability, such as acrylic or oil-based paints. Furniture often has more intricate surfaces, so smaller brushes and rollers are needed for precision.
Repainting old or damaged furniture can give it a new lease on life, but preparation and technique are key to achieving a professional result. Whether you're painting MDF, plywood, or veneered boards, following these steps will help you transform your furniture with a smooth, durable finish.
Explore Cutsmart’s range of bespoke materials and start your next DIY project with confidence!