How to Paint a Wooden Coffee Table
Painting a wooden coffee table can instantly freshen up a room. Whether you’re repurposing a thrift store find or giving your current table a facelift, you’ll need to take care to prepare the surface so that the paint will stick. This guide will teach you how to ensure a professional finish with minimal effort.
Step 1: Prep the Table
Begin by removing any hardware or knobs from the table’s surface. Rub the surface down with a soft-bristled cleaning brush and gentle detergent soap to remove dust and dirt. Create a paste of baking soda and water, then use it to scour the surface and remove any tough, stuck-on grime. When the table is dry, sand it with fine-grained sandpaper to create a smooth, even surface.
Step 2: Apply Primer
Once the table is prepped, use a foam brush to apply a coat of primer. Choose a primer that is designed for the desired top coat material, such as oil- or water-based paints. Primer helps the paint adhere to the surface without chipping or flaking, and also creates a more even, consistent finish.
Step 3: Paint the Table
On a well-ventilated, dust-free surface, use a foam brush or synthetic bristle brush to apply the paint. For best results, work in small sections and brush along the grain. When painting with water-based paints, apply two or three coats depending on the desired effect. With oil-based paints, apply one thick coat, then immediately rub the table with a cloth or rag to give it a smooth, aged finish.
Step 4: Protect the Finish
Once you’re happy with the painted finish, you’ll want to protect it. For a super durable topcoat, combine furniture wax and mineral spirit and apply a thin, even coat with a clean cloth. This will seal the finish and help prevent fingerprints, smudges, and wear and tear.
Tips for Painting a Wooden Coffee Table
- Always wear protective gloves and a dust mask when sanding and painting.
- For a unique, multi-tonal finish, use two colors of paint in complimentary colors.
- Apply a coat of white paint first, then go over it with the darker paint for a layered, eclectic look.
- To make cleaning quick and easy, apply a coat of polyurethane as a final topcoat.
- Add a touch of personal style to the table by painting on a geometric pattern or adding a few cheerful flourishes.
Painting a wooden coffee table is a fun and easy DIY project that can be completed in a few hours with minimal effort. Armed with the right supplies and know-how, you’ll be able to transform your coffee table and give your room an instant face lift.
