How to Use Spray Paint on Furniture

For an inexpensive and easy way to spruce up old pieces of furniture, refinish them with a coat of spray paint. Whether your piece is made of plastic, wicker, wood or laminate, there is a spray paint for it. Besides furniture, spray paint picture frames for an instant wall mural or plastic planters for a coordinated look in your garden.

Instructions

Spray Painting Wood Furniture

1. Wash the piece of furniture with warm soap and water. Let it dry completely.

2. Sand wood furniture lightly before painting.

3. Stand 1 to 2 feet away from the piece of furniture.

4. Use wide sweeping motions with the spray can, 12 to 24 inches away from the piece of furniture. Spraying too closely will result in drips.

5. Apply the first coat, and let it dry thoroughly before applying a second coat.

6. Seal wooden furniture with a clear spray polyurethane.

Spray Painting Plastic Furniture

1. Wash and dry plastic furniture thoroughly before painting.

2. Select a spray paint that is specifically designed for plastic furniture.

3. Use wide sweeping motions when painting plastic furniture while holding the can 12 to 24 inches from the piece to avoid drips.

4. Allow the paint to completely dry before applying the next coat.

5. Let plastic furniture sit overnight before using it.

Tips & Warnings

• Always work in a well ventilated area when using spray paint.

• Many spray paints designed for plastics claim "1 coat coverage." Be prepared to apply 2 to 3 coats for a paint job that will last.

• If working outdoors, choose a day with no strong winds. Wind can cause a dull finish, and the spray can travel and land on things you don't intend to paint, such as nearby cars.

Resources

• The Old House Web includes detailed instructions for spray painting wicker furniture.
• Furniture Knowledge has detailed instructions for how to refinish furniture.