How to Paint Imitation Wood Furniture

Proper sanding is the key to painting imitation wood furniture.

Purchasing imitation wood furniture instead of genuine wood furniture can save you some money but updating it to match a new decorating theme is a little complicated. The slick and often glossy surface of imitation wood furniture does not bond easily with paint and initial attempts to paint it may result in a sticky mess or a paint job that begins to chip and flake soon after it's finished. While you will need to take some extra time to prepare the furniture and ensure the paint adheres well, you don't need any artistic skill.

Things You'll Need

• Medium grit sanding sponge
• 1/2 cup of water
• 1/2 cup of white vinegar
• Rag
• Oil based enamel paint
• Paintbrush
• Extra fine grit sanding sponge
• Tack cloth
• Clear acrylic spray

Instructions

1. Sand the imitation wood furniture with a medium grit sanding sponge. This will help remove any clear coating or veneer on the furniture that may prevent the paint from adhering. The furniture will feel slightly rough when this veneer is removed.

2. Combine approximately 1/2 cup of water and 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Use this mixture along with a clean rag to scrub the outside of the furniture and remove any dirt or sticky spots. Dry the furniture when it is clean.

3. Apply one coat of oil based enamel paint to the imitation wood furniture with a paintbrush.

4. Apply a second coat of paint when the first coat is completely dry.

5. Sand the dry painted imitation wood furniture with a wet extra fine grit sanding sponge. Wet the sponge occasionally as you work to keep it damp at all times. This will help you achieve a shiny finish on your painted furniture.

6. Wipe the furniture with a tack cloth to remove any paint dust created during sanding.

7. Spray a coat of clear acrylic spray over the entire piece of furniture. This will seal the paint and help protect it from chipping or flaking.

References

• "Paint Saves the Day"; Lucianna Samu; 2009