How to Repaint & Decorate a Dresser

Remove the drawers from the dresser to paint them separately. Dust and thoroughly clean the drawers and the dresser frame. Vacuum the inside of the drawers.

Unscrew the drawer handles if you plan to install new ones. Press quick-drying wood filler into the holes and smooth over the overflow with a putty knife or stiff spatula.

Sand the drawer fronts and dresser frame with low grade (coarse) sandpaper. This creates a smooth finish when the dresser is painted.

Spray-paint the dressers frame and the drawers' fronts and sides with a latex or oil-based primer. Priming furniture prevents stains seeping through the new paint. Start at the top and work downward. Keep the room well-ventilated if you are using an oil-based primer.

Apply the latex interior paint when the undercoat dries. Use a roller for the first layer. Once it dries, apply the second coat with a paintbrush to create an attractive textured look.

Decorate with new knobs or drawer handles. Measure and drill the holes, then screw in the new handles. Create a quirky look with drawer pulls of different shapes and sizes, but stick to the same color for a unified effect.

Place paper liners inside the drawers. Drawer liners add decorative interest and protect your clothes. Some of them are scented to keep your clothes fresh and fragrant.

Add a personal touch. Place a favorite photograph or sculpture on top of the dresser. Alternatively, choose a bunch of flowers and color coordinate them with your freshly painted dresser.