How to Paint Distressed Furniture Antique White

Distressed wood furniture can be transformed with a clean fresh coat of white paint.

An inexpensive makeover tool, paint can take an old piece of furniture and give it a new look and a renewed purpose within a home. Painting a distressed piece of furniture antique white revives it with a fresh, clean look. With proper preparation, furniture can successfully be repainted.

Things You'll Need

• Water
• Mild dishwashing soap
• Soft, lint-free towels
• No. 1 sandpaper
• No. 0 sandpaper
• No. 00 sandpaper
• Wood filler or putty
• White primer
• Antique white paint
• Brush

Instructions

1. Thoroughly clean the furniture using water, mild dishwashing soap and lint-free towels. All dirt, grime and grease accumulations must be removed.

2. Allow the furniture to dry completely.

3. Smooth any rough places with No. 1 sandpaper.

4. Lightly sand the entire surface with a No. 0 sandpaper. This provides a "tooth" to the surface to which the new layer of primer can adhere.

5. Using wood filler or putty, fill any dented areas in the wood. Sand lightly once it's dried, according to manufacturer instructions.

6. Remove any dust created by the sanding with a dry lint-free towel.

7. Prime the furniture using a white primer designed specifically for painted surfaces. Allow it to dry at least 24 hours.

8. Lightly sand with No. 00 sandpaper, removing any visible brush marks.

9. Wipe with a clean lint-free towel to remove any dust.

10. Apply antique white paint, using smooth strokes. Brush out thinly and evenly. A thin coat allows for proper drying. Allow at least 48 hours to dry.

11. Lightly sand again with No. 00 sandpaper to remove any visible brush marks.

12. Clean off the dust with a lint-free towel.

13. Add the final coat of antique white paint to the furniture. Allow it to dry thoroughly.

Tips & Warnings

• Flat paint finishes hide flaws and imperfections more effectively than glossy finishes.

• Allowing paint to properly dry and cure between coats results in a professional finish that lasts.

• High quality brushes and paint allow for the smooth application of paint to furniture.

• Always work in areas with proper ventilation when dealing with paints, primers and other chemicals.

• Protective gear, such as safety goggles and masks, are recommended when sanding painted, stained or varnished wood surfaces.

References

• Old and Sold: How to Paint Furniture
• Young House Love: How to Paint Furniture
• ArtSparx: Furniture Preparation