What Kind of Paint Do You Use on Furniture?
If you're willing to paint old furniture, or new unfinished furniture, you can save a great deal on decorating and get results exactly to your taste. Today's acrylic paints offer many advantages over the oil-based paints once used on furniture. Does this Spark an idea?
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History
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Oil-based paints were the traditional choice of furniture craftsman for hundreds of years. It wasn't until the mid-20th century that another option was developed: acrylic paints.
Benefits
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Acrylic paints dry quickly and are water-soluble, allowing for simple cleanup. Also, oil-based paints release toxic fumes when they dry, while acrylic paints do not.
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Warning
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Although acrylic paints dry to the touch very quickly, they do not completely set at the same rate. Allow several weeks before using a newly painted piece of furniture.
Expert Tip
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Consider using techniques such as crackling and glazing to give your new pieces an aged appearance.
Fun Idea
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Be bold when painting furniture. A lime green bureau or turquoise armoire can dramatically change a room.
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