Greetings Mr. GH fans, Kate here, aka Centsational Girl, at Rashon’s request with a little play by
play on my method for refinishing furniture. So glad to be here today!
Isn’t Mr. GH the coolest? Nate knows it, so do I. Rashon and I have two things in common: we
share a love of thrifting and the pursuit of diamond style on a dime. Recently, I scored a great
little cabinet at my local thrift store, and like Rashon, I see things for what they could be, not for
what they currently are.
okay kate, butting in to show everyone the before...
NOW ON TO THE TIPS!
1) Remove all Hardware. Whether you’ve decided to reuse the existing knobs, pulls and hinges or replace them, they should be removed before you begin.
2) Clean and Scuff. If you’re repainting your piece, you need to start with clean surfaces. Because you’ll be using a bonding primer, there is no need to sand your piece to remove all traces of varnish, but giving the entire piece a onceover with a medium grit (80 – 120) sanding wedge for 5 to 10 minutes helps to remove any lingering debris and also preps your surface for priming. Wipe down when complete.
3) Cosmetic Repair. Fill any scratches or dents with a sandable and paintable wood putty (my personal preference is Elmer’s wood filler in the orange and blue container). If you are moving the location of your knobs or hardware, now is the time to fill those existing holes. Sand smooth when dry.
4) Use Primer. Bonding primers are essential for a lasting paint job, and there are several primers on the market, both water and oil based versions. I use Zinsser ‘Cover Stain’, an oil based formula, because it adheres to glossy surfaces (even laminate) and blocks any stain from seeping through and affecting your future paint color. You can choose either a spray version or brush on version, both can be sanded once they are dry. Spray versions are faster and offer a smoother application, but like all spray paints, they must be applied in a well ventilated area and the cans should be disposed of according to local regulations. A brush on version will go a lot farther but will take longer to apply.
One coat of primer will suffice, but for surfaces that get a lot of wear and tear like tabletops, I use two coats of spray primer, or a thicker coat of a brush on formula. Keep in mind, using a brush on formula requires you clean your brush with mineral spirits or paint thinner, so consider using a throwaway paintbrush for the primer coat. Tip: oil based paints will come off your hands with vegetable oil, no need to use harsh chemicals on your hands.
5) Paint. One your primer is dry, apply two coats of latex paint. For the best paint job, invest in a quality angled brush. You can use a roller for quick application, but you’ll need to follow it up with a brush, especially in nooks or tight places. I also recommend a paint conditioner called Floetrol, which extends your drying time to eliminate drag and minimize brush strokes in your paint. It’s inexpensive ($7 to $9 a bottle) and a little goes a long way, find it at any specialty paint store.
6) Add Hardware. If you’re adding modern knobs or pulls, measure their precise location and use a drill bit to create new holes.
7) Protect your Hard Work. Use a water based protectant as your final step, which helps eliminate any stickiness that can result from using latex paint, and also protects your paint for years to come. I recommend either Minwax Polycrylic or Varathane Polyurethane formulas, you can find them in brush on or spray applications, in both satin and gloss finishes. Make sure you avoid any oil based polyurethanes, they are designed for stained furniture, and will yellow or amber over time.
Now let's see the after.
just as i suspected...splendid.
thanks so much kate for giving my readers a great 101 lesson in painting furniture. well me too!
you can always visit kate here at her blog, centsational girl.
Rashon
LifeStyle Blogger and Designer
If you would like help creating the perfect space in your home on a modest budget, please email me at rashon@rashoncarraway.com (please note design services aint free).
