Easy Paint Makeovers
Already Painted Furniture
What You'll Need
- One gallon Ace Royal Touch Interior Alkyd Enamel Undercoater (about $40, acehardware.com for store locations).
- One gallon Behr High-Gloss latex (shown in Citrus Blast; $24, homedepot.com for store locations).
- Regular or foam paintbrush (prices vary, at hardware stores).
- One pack 100-grit or 220-grit sandpaper (about $4 each at hardware stores).
How to Do It
Step 1: If the paint is peeling or uneven as a result of multiple coats, give the entire surface a light once-over with 100-grit
sandpaper to smooth rough edges and create a uniform surface. If the old paint is in good condition, with no flaking or bumps,
use 220-grit sandpaper to rough up the smooth finish a bit so the new paint will stick. Vacuum up all the residual grit, or
wipe it off with a clean cloth.
Step 2: Apply a single, uniform coat of primer with either a regular or foam paintbrush and let dry. Many brands recommend waiting
up to 24 hours before painting.
Step 3: When the primer is dry, use a clean brush to apply the first coat of paint. Let it dry for at least two hours, then apply
a second coat and let it dry (two coats are generally the minimum needed for a nice, even finish). For furniture with intricate
carving or thin spindles, consider using a spray primer and a high-gloss spray paint after sanding (for the technique, see
Step 2 of Coffee Table).
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