Remove the dresser drawers. Clean the inside and outside of the dresser with a damp rag.
Sand the dresser. Be careful not to apply too much pressure. If there is grime or paint that doesn't come off when you sand, go over the area with a wire brush.
Apply a coat of primer to the entire dresser. Wait for the primer to dry.
Paint the dresser with a paintbrush, making sure to follow the grains in the wood. When the paint is dry, apply a second coat.
Sand areas that you want to look distressed, such as edges and corners.
Apply a polyurethane stain or finish to the entire dresser and let it dry.