It's been a reality for everyone. Your chair is looking slightly worse for wear and you have to decide whether to replace or refresh. Although it may seem as if the only choice is to replace it, painting furniture can be a fantastic method to bring your furniture back to its original splendor, and you can save money too.
For your convenience, we've put together things to know before you begin painting to ensure that you can make that old furniture appear new again.
Sand off the old paint
Repainting furniture that has been painted will require the removal of all or most of the paint. Inattention to these steps could cause two issues that could negatively impact the results you get:
The old paint could cause it to be difficult for the new paint to stick to the furniture's surface.
The old paint left makes a rough surface, which will impact the overall appearance of the finished work. The finished product won't appear as sleek as it does if you take off all of the old paint.
The kind of paint you're applying is an additional thing to think about before you begin your project. If the furniture you want to paint was initially painted using oil-based paint, then water-based paint might not work. Water-based paints won't stick like oil-based paints, and vice versa. This is why getting rid of any old paints is essential. It allows you to apply the paint you feel is appropriate for the task.
In the event that the piece of furniture intricate and it's paint is still in excellent shape, it is possible that you do not have to take off all of the paint. Slightly sand the finish and ensure that you apply the same kind of painting (oil base or water base) for repainting.
Using primer
Although a variety of paints are suitable to finish your furniture project prior to painting, think about applying a primer coat to prepare the surface.
But, remember that if you're using a paint that is water based, it is recommended to use a primer that is water based. The same is for oil-based primers and paints. A primer will ensure that the new color is clear and is well-adhered to the surface. This gives your furniture that fresh, new appearance you want.
Select the paint of your choice
Does the furniture being discussed made of wood? Metal? Maybe you've decided you want to paint the weathered vinyl chair on your patio. If yes, it's essential to be aware of the surface you'll be painting since various types of paint work better with specific types of materials.
After you've sanded your furniture to get rid of the old paint, pick the paint that can bond to the surface you're painting. Because acrylic paints are resistant to UV, they're excellent for outdoor furniture.
Paint made of enamel (despite declining in popularity for oil-based paints) is also a good choice due to its long-lasting with a smooth and even finish. It is also a good choice for latex paint as it is the most affordable and is easily cleaned, which are both essential attributes in furniture paint.
Plan ahead
If the furnishings you intend to paint is frequently used, be sure to schedule according to the timeframe for painting it. Paints made from latex dry quickly; however, acrylic paint takes longer, and enamel (as as well as other oil-based paints) will take several days to dry. When you are beginning your project, ensure that you allow the furniture plenty of time to dry before using it again. Be aware that the possibility of applying several coats of paint, which can prolong the duration of the project.