How to Customize a Storkcraft Glider & Ottoman With a White Finish

Take off the cushions and arm caddies from the glider and remove the cushioned top from the ottoman. Set them aside or launder. The cover on the ottoman cushion can be removed for washing, but don't throw the entire ottoman top in the wash.

Sand the wood on both pieces, using coarse sandpaper until the existing finish is removed. A sanding block helps on flat areas. For the dowels, wrap the sandpaper around the rod and pull it back and forth to sand without causing flat spots on the curve.

Add any wood embellishments at this time. Use wood glue to attach trim, rosettes or carved pieces along the base rails and allow to dry.

Sand both pieces again, using medium-grit sandpaper to smooth. This won't take as long as the first sanding, but be thorough.

Wipe down both pieces with a tack cloth until no dust remains and the piece is clean and smooth.

Flip both pieces upside down and wrap all metal hardware with plastic. Small areas like screw heads can be covered with dabs of petroleum jelly, but don't get any jelly on the wood. Securely tape the edges of wrapped areas without overlapping onto the wood.

Apply a coat of primer if you'll be using paint. Apply a coat of wood conditioner if you'll be using stain. Use a soft-bristled brush and aim for smooth strokes and even coverage.

Apply your paint or stain according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow to dry for the specified amount of time, then apply a second coat. Two coats of paint is enough, but you can apply as many coats of stain as it takes to achieve the tone you want.

Sand the final dry coat with fine-grit sandpaper. Use light pressure to avoid removing color. Wipe with a tack cloth to remove dust.

Hand-paint decorations if desired. Fine metallic pinstripes along edges or tole painting along the rails can be done at this point. You also can sand edges to remove some color for an antiqued look.

Apply a protective clear top coat. Use a water-based polyurethane to prevent giving your white finish an amber tone. A spray can help you avoid drips, but its thin application requires several coats. Allow to dry thoroughly.

Replace your cushions because you could probably do without the arm caddies at this point. Consider leaving the cushions off the chair to show off the attractive rails on the back. Just use a throw blanket that coordinates with the ottoman cushion to tie the pieces together. Alternatively, purchase replacement cushions from the store where you bought the pieces or online.