Painting Tips for All Experience Levels

Hello, it’s Ali from House Vintage… back again! Summer is over and school has begun.  To celebrate back to school, I am sharing some lessons I have learned about painting furniture.  I have divided these simple tips based on your ability, so even if this is the first piece of furniture you have ever painted, it will turn out great.

Estate sale globe painted with spray paint.

Beginner

• A great finished product, starts with proper preparation.  Sandpaper and a good primer are your best friends.
• Practice makes perfect.  Buy second hand furniture at garage and estate sales to refine your technique.
• Pick the right paint.  Spray paint works well for smaller pieces with lots of nooks and crannies. Latex paint is fine for larger pieces.

Intermediate

• Mix your own paint colors.  I like to use leftover latex wall paint to make custom colors for furniture.
• Try different painting techniques like distressing.  Paint a base color, then a contrasting top coat.  Use sand paper to remove the top color in areas that would typically show wear like corners.
• Change up the paint finish you are using.  High gloss gives a modern look, whereas a flat finish will look primitive.

Advanced

Now you’re an expert…have some fun.

• Mix your mediums.  Paint and stain are a great combination, or mix your paint colors for a contrasting look.
• Decorate with paint.  Try polka dots for a child’s room, or stripes in the entry way.  If you don’t have a steady hand, use painters tape or stencils (buy or DIY).  
• Try different types of paint like chalk or milk paint.

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Thanks for the tips Ali! I am always surprised how paint can totally transform things!