Material: Painted Wood
One slightly worn or woebegone chair, table, or stool plus two or three coats of fresh paint equals an instant, easy update (for a fraction of the cost of a new piece of furniture).
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. (Tip: Primer can be tinted at the paint store to match your new color. This can help camouflage a dark base and cut down on the number of coats of paint you’ll need to apply.)
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 Makeover Your Coffee Table With Paint.

Shopping List

One gallon Ace Royal Touch Interior Alkyd Enamel Undercoater, $21, www.acehardware.com for store locations.

One gallon Behr High-Gloss latex (shown in Citrus Blast), $24, www.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.