Mastering the Art of Painting a Dresser: A Comprehensive Guide

Painting a dresser can be a rewarding DIY project, but it requires the right techniques and tools to achieve a professional-looking finish. This guide will cover the step-by-step process of painting a dresser, along with tips from experienced DIYers to help you get the best results.

Why Not Just Paint It?

While painting is a viable option, it's important to consider the condition of the furniture. For a piece made of 100% real wood without any manufactured or engineered elements, it's worth taking it to a professional for a proper restoration. Even minor imperfections can detract from the piece's character and aesthetic appeal. Many valuable pieces of old furniture have been ruined by overzealous painting, which can remove important parts of the piece's history and beauty.

Preparation is Key

Before you start painting, ensure that the piece is clean and properly prepared. Here are the essential steps:

Remove Hardware and Drawers

First, remove all the hardware and drawers. This will give you access to the entire surface, making the painting process easier.

Thorough Sanding

Use at least 120-grit sandpaper to sand the entire piece. This step is crucial to provide a surface for the primer to adhere to. Avoid going to a very fine grit, as you want to leave some texture for the primer to grab. For melamine or mica surfaces, rough it up with 80-grit sandpaper. After sanding, clean the dressers with a TSP substitute outside to remove all grime and oils.

Priming

Prime the piece using a quality primer intended for the paint you will be using. Some recommended brands include Sherwin Williams Duration Emerald and Benjamin Moore Aura. Applying a good primer is essential to ensure that the paint adheres well to the surface.

Painting Techniques

Using a spray rattle can is the most efficient method, but you can also use paint brushes for more control. Here are two tips from a seasoned DIYer:

Use the Right Tools

Wash the surface thoroughly with clean soapy water, making sure to dry it properly. Apply a primer like ESP, which is essentially a water-based glue (similar to white glue used by children but it dries clear). This will give the surface a better grip for the paint. Alternatively, you can sand the surface, but this is time-consuming.

Multiple Coats

To achieve a smooth and even finish, use multiple coats of paint. We used 4-5 coats for our dark wood dresser, each with a different texture. The first coat filled the voids and cracks, while the second and third coats made the surface smoother. The final coat was thin and applied in the direction of the wood grain to minimize brush marks.

Post-Application Steps

After applying the final coat, allow the paint to fully cure. This typically takes a few days, depending on the brand and environmental conditions. Avoid putting anything on top of the paint until it is fully cured. Additionally, if you are painting wood, consider using milk paint, as it requires no primer and is safe for use on children's toys.

By following these steps and tips, you can paint a dresser and achieve a professional-looking finish that enhances its beauty and character. Remember, preparation and patience are key to a successful project.