Hand-Painted Tables & Chairs for Kids

Themes and Ideas

• When choosing a design, think about the existing color scheme of the room so the finished design of the furniture will blend in with the overall look. For example, primary colors would look out of place in a pastel bedroom. Ask your child to help choose a design; he may have a favorite character or a specific theme, such as outer space or the jungle, that he wants to take as inspiration. Decorate tables with painted place mats or pictures of fun food like cupcakes. Add a child's name or even a favorite poem for a personal touch. If you are not confident about your artistic ability, stick to easy geometric patterns.

Preparation

• Start by preparing your furniture. If it has been previously painted or varnished, clean it with TSP and then sand it with fine gauge sandpaper. Use a tack cloth to remove loose dirt and debris. Coat new or bare wood with an oil-based primer to ensure a smooth, even surface for the paint to adhere to. Apply an undercoat to previously painted furniture before painting.

Painting

• If you are using a base color, carefully apply two coats, allowing time for the paint to dry between coats. Make sure the paint you use is safe for children and does not contain lead or other toxic chemicals.

  Use acrylic craft paints for decorative images and patterns. Draw your design on the furniture with a pencil. Use brushes of different sizes to paint on stripes or geometric patterns; practice on a piece of paper until you feel confident.

Special Effects

• Use painter's tape to mask off borders and shapes, such as rectangles for place mats. Allow paint to dry for at least half an hour before removing the tape. Touch up the edges using a fine brush. Use stencils to add names or motifs to your furniture, applying the paint with a stipple brush or sponge. Finally, seal your design with a clear acrylic sealer and allow to dry overnight.