Spray painting a piece of furniture may be the simplest and most gratifying home DIY project there is. Don’t believe me? Imagine taking a battered-up, chipped chair or a unfortunately-stained dresser and re-styling it into something completely new—all in a matter of a few hours! It is economical, easy and, when performed, the spray painting is overall very professional finish.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!But how do you go from Pinterest inspiration to an elegantly spray-painted work of art? From gathering your materials to putting on those final, picture-perfect touches, this guide has you covered. Let’s get started!
What You Need to Spray Paint Furniture
However, before you run out to buy a can of spray paint and go full Picasso, it’s important that you have the right tools at your disposal. Here’s what you’ll need for a smooth, professional-looking result:
Essentials
Spray Paint for the surface you’re painting
Purchase paint specifically designed for the material, whether it be wood, plastic or metal.
Primer
Primer is crucial to let your paint stick. Keep it simple: replace with spray primer
Sealant or Topcoat
A topcoat will protect the paint you applied from scratches or damage over time.
Sandpaper (120- to 220- grit)
This will help reduce any imperfections on your furniture ahead of time.
Cleaning Supplies
For surface prep, all you need is a microfiber cloth, mild soap and water.
Safety Gear
- Masking Tape (or Painter’s Tape)
- To mask off places you don’t want painted.
- Canvas drop cloths or plastic sheeting
- For covering the floor and other furniture to avoid overspray.
Protective Mask
You don’t want to breathe in paint fumes, which is why you should wear a mask made for use with spray paint.
Gloves
Keep your hands paint-free.
Got everything? Now you can transform that old piece of furniture into a room’s focal point.
How to Prepare Your Furniture for Spray Painting
The most important in spray painting process is arguably preparation. Skipping it completely? Big mistake. Prepping your furniture provides a smooth, long-lasting finish. Here’s how to nail it.
Clean Thoroughly
Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild soap to remove dirt, dust, or grease. If you’re painting a castoff kept in a garage or shed this step makes all the difference.
Sand It Down
Do you need to sand paper down the furniture surface Remove the old finish / paint. The paint sticks hold better on the rough surfaces! If your pieces are too shiny, sanding helps level the sheen for better paint adhesion.
Wipe It Clean (Again)
When you’re done wiping off the sanded dust, take a microfiber cloth to get off the residue. You need a superficie absolutely clean before spray painting.
Prime Time
Spray the surface evenly with a primer. Primer reduces the imperfections and keeps your paint on the spot for a longer time. Let the primer dry completely before proceeding — dry times vary, so consult the instructions on the can.
How to Technique Spray Painting Furniture
Now for the fun part! Spray painting is extremely satisfying, but technique is important. This paraphrasing would follow unchanged: These steps will ensure you end up with a smooth, streak-free finish every damn time.
Step 1: Set Up Your Workspace
Spray paint requires ventilation, so do your work outside or in a big open space. Spread drop cloths to shield adjacent floors, walls and furnishings.
Step 2: Shake That Can
To get the best results from your spray paint can, shake it well (1-2 minutes before getting started). This mixing allows for even dispersion of pigment and propellant.
Stage 3 — Always Start Off With Thin Layer Coats
The farther range would be 8-12 inches above the surface. For the first application, use slow and steady sweeps for a thin, even coat. Don’t be tempted to oversaturate the surface—you’ll be glad that you didn’t when the time comes! A few thin coats will always do a better job than a single thick coat.
Step 4: Wait Between Coats
Patience is key. After each coat, let the coats dry (about 15-20 minutes) before application. You may end up with drips or peeling paint.
No. 5: Missed Spots
After you’ve put at least two full coats on, check your furniture from all angles to make sure you didn’t miss anything. Use a small touch-up spray to fill in any missed areas.
Adding Finishing Touches
Gasoline dries quickly, but we’re not done! Finishing touches can elevate your furniture from “DIY attempt” to “custom showroom piece.”
Apply a Topcoat
Finish with a clear sealant (to protect your furniture from wear and tear) or matte topcoat. This will help to prevent scratches and improve the finish with shine or depth.
Add Hardware
If there are pieces involved such as dressers, update worn or outdated hardware with modern knobs or handles. Believe me when I say it’ll be a game-changer!
Cure Time
Spray paint dries too fast on the surface, but it might take 24-48 hours to cure (fully harden). Don’t use it heavily until it’s fully cured.
Dangers of Spray Painting and What You Can Do
Sureness that is not stated it, Safety is guaranteed at spray paint. These tips can help keep you and your space safe.
- Be sure to paint in a well-ventilated space to avoid inhalation of fumes.
- Wear a mask and gloves — better safe than sorry.
- Never spray paint close to heat sources or open flames—it’s flammable!
- Keep the can vertical and apply an even coat to reduce any overspray or clogging.
Start Your DIY Adventure
Spray painting furniture is one of the best home upgrades for your dollar. With some careful preparation, technique and finishing touches, you can take old, tired pieces and turn them into beautiful custom furniture that you’re excited to flaunt.
Feeling inspired? Don’t hesitate—get yourself a spray can and allow your furniture (and your space) the refresh it needs.
Have questions or want product recommendations? Leave a comment below, or post your results on social media using the hashtag #DIYFurnitureGlowUp. Happy painting!
