Unlock The Secrets: Easy Steps To Chalk Paint Varnished Furniture Like A Pro
What To Know
- However, when it comes to painting varnished furniture, there are a few additional steps you need to take to ensure a successful and long-lasting finish.
- If you want to create a distressed or antique look, you can use sandpaper or a sanding sponge to distress the edges and corners of the furniture.
- It is generally recommended to sand varnished furniture before applying chalk paint to ensure a better bond and prevent the paint from peeling.
Chalk painting has become a popular technique for revamping furniture and home décor items. Its versatility and ease of use make it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced DIY enthusiasts. However, when it comes to painting varnished furniture, there are a few additional steps you need to take to ensure a successful and long-lasting finish. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of how to chalk paint varnished furniture, providing detailed instructions, tips, and tricks to help you achieve stunning results.
1. Gather Your Supplies:
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
- Chalk paint in your desired color
- Paintbrushes (a variety of sizes)
- Sandpaper (fine-grit)
- TSP (trisodium phosphate) cleaner
- Rags or a sponge
- Drop cloth or plastic sheeting
- Painter’s tape (optional)
- Clear wax or polyurethane sealer
2. Prepare the Furniture:
1. Remove Hardware: Start by removing any hardware, such as knobs, handles, or hinges, from the furniture. This will make it easier to paint and avoid paint buildup in these areas.
2. Clean the Surface: Use a mixture of TSP cleaner and warm water to thoroughly clean the furniture. TSP is a degreaser that will help remove any dirt, grease, or wax buildup. Rinse the surface with clean water and allow it to dry completely.
3. Sand the Surface: Lightly sand the surface of the furniture with fine-grit sandpaper. This will help create a smooth surface for the chalk paint to adhere to. Be sure to sand in the direction of the grain.
3. Apply Painter’s Tape (Optional):
If there are areas of the furniture you don’t want to paint, such as a glass insert or metal trim, use painter’s tape to protect these areas.
4. Apply the First Coat of Chalk Paint:
1. Stir the Paint: Before using, stir the chalk paint thoroughly to ensure an even consistency.
2. Apply Thin Coats: Apply the chalk paint in thin, even coats. Don’t try to apply too much paint at once, as this can lead to drips and uneven coverage.
3. Let Each Coat Dry: Allow each coat of paint to dry completely before applying the next one. The drying time will vary depending on the brand of chalk paint you’re using, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidelines.
5. Sand Between Coats (Optional):
For a smoother finish, lightly sand the surface of the furniture between coats of paint. This will help to remove any brush marks or imperfections.
6. Apply Additional Coats as Needed:
Apply additional coats of chalk paint until you achieve the desired coverage and opacity. Typically, two to three coats are sufficient, but you may need more or less depending on the color of the furniture and the desired finish.
7. Distress the Furniture (Optional):
If you want to create a distressed or antique look, you can use sandpaper or a sanding sponge to distress the edges and corners of the furniture. This will give it a worn and weathered appearance.
8. Apply a Clear Wax or Polyurethane Sealer:
Once the chalk paint has dried completely, apply a clear wax or polyurethane sealer to protect the finish. This will help to prevent the paint from chipping or peeling and will also make it easier to clean.
9. Reattach the Hardware:
Once the sealer has dried, reattach the hardware that you removed in step 2.
Enjoy Your Transformed Furniture!
Your varnished furniture has now been successfully transformed with chalk paint. Enjoy your newly painted piece and admire the beautiful results of your hard work.
Questions We Hear a Lot
Q: Can I chalk paint varnished furniture without sanding?
A: It is generally recommended to sand varnished furniture before applying chalk paint to ensure a better bond and prevent the paint from peeling. However, if the varnish is in good condition and properly cleaned, you may be able to get away without sanding.
Q: What is the best type of chalk paint to use on varnished furniture?
A: There are many different brands and types of chalk paint available, so it’s important to choose one that is specifically designed for use on varnished surfaces. Some popular brands include Annie Sloan Chalk Paint, Rust-Oleum Chalked Paint, and FolkArt Chalk Paint.
Q: How do I prevent the chalk paint from chipping or peeling?
A: To prevent the chalk paint from chipping or peeling, make sure to properly prepare the surface by cleaning and sanding it. Additionally, apply multiple thin coats of paint and allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. Finally, seal the painted surface with a clear wax or polyurethane sealer.
