How to Paint a Table a Different Color

Repainting a table can make it better match your decor.

When you want to change the color of a piece of furniture such as a table, simply throwing on a new coat of paint can lead to disaster. This is especially true if the old coat of paint is a dark color and the new coat is a light color. To properly repaint a table, you first must have a clean table surface. Then, you have to apply a primer coat that will help the paint to adhere to the table and help to cover up the old color.

Things You'll Need

• Drop cloth
• Sponge
• Detergent
• 100 grit sandpaper
• 220 grit sandpaper
• Tack rag
• Primer
• 2 paint stirrers
• 2 paint brushs
• Paint

Instructions

1. Move the table onto a drop cloth to protect your floors from paint.

2. Clean every surface of the table with your sponge and detergent.

3. Go over every surface of the table with your 100-grit sandpaper. Once you have sanded every area, go over it again with the 220-grit sandpaper to make the table smoother.

4. Rub the table down with your tack rag to remove any dust or particles left over from the sanding.

5. Open the primer and mix it up. Dip one of your bushes into the can and apply the primer to the table in long strokes. If your table is wood, apply the primer in the same direction as the wood grain, if you can see the grain. Wait for the primer to completely dry, according to the directions you can find on the can, before you continue.

6. Open the can of paint, mix it up, and apply it to the table using the same types of strokes as you used for the primer. Wait for the paint to dry, and then apply a second coat if the color looks spotty or uneven.

References

• BellaOnline: Repainting the Kitchen Table
• Old and Sold: How to Paint Furniture