How to Change the Color of a Dresser

Start by removing the hardware on your old dresser, taking off the knobs and hinges with a screwdriver. Set them aside in an organized manner in order to reattach them later.

Take the drawers out of the dresser and set them aside momentarily. This will make it lighter and easier to move.

Put down drop cloths in a well-ventilated area, then carry the dresser to the space and place it on top of the drop cloths. Retrieve the drawers and set them on the drop cloths as well, but do not put them back into the dresser just yet.

Remove the old finish and/or paint by putting on rubber gloves and pouring paint stripper over the dresser. Spread the stripper out with a paintbrush and let it soak in for about 10 minutes. Begin to abrade the dresser with wet/dry sandpaper to remove the old finish. If your dresser was not previously stained or painted, skip the next step.

Clean off the dresser with dish soap and water using a bucket and sponge. Rinse with plain water and a clean sponge, and then dry it with towels.

Fill in any scratches, holes or gouges with wood putty and a putty knife once the dresser is completely dry. Sand over the wood putty with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth it out once it dries.

Wipe down the dresser with a clean, dry towel to remove all the dust from sanding.

Take a clean paintbrush and apply a coat of paint to the dresser in a color of your choosing. Allow the paint to dry as directed by the manufacturer.

Paint a second coat on the dresser and drawers once the first coat dries if the color is not dark enough. Once dry, put the dresser back in the bedroom, then replace the drawers and hardware to finish.