How to Paint an Old Oak Entertainment Unit

Remove any handles and knobs from the oak entertainment unit with a screwdriver.

Examine the entertainment unit to determine the condition it's in. If the varnish or paint is in good condition and is not glossy, simply sponge it down with warm soapy water and proceed to Step 6.

Apply a chemical varnish and paint remover with a paintbrush if the paint on the oak unit is peeling or cracked. Also use this remover if the unit has the high-gloss finish that is commonly seen on oak furniture.

Let the paint remover stand for 15 to 20 minutes. Scrape the loosened paint off with a metal scraper.

Sponge the oak unit with denatured alcohol or benzene, whichever is indicated on the remover instructions, and let it dry.

Rub the unit thoroughly with 150-grit sandpaper. Wrap the sandpaper around a block of wood to create a flat surface to sand with. Wipe the dust off with cheesecloth.

Fill the holes, cracks and exposed grain in the oak with grain filler. Apply it with a brush over the entire surface of the unit. Allow it to sit until the filler has a dull appearance. Wipe the excess off with a coarse cloth, going against the grain. Let it dry overnight, then lightly sand it with 320-grit sandpaper to blend it into the wood. Wipe the excess dust away with a cheesecloth. Skip this step if you want the natural grain of the wood to be visible through the paint.

Brush a coat of primer on the entertainment unit, covering all the surface area. An entertainment unit is likely to have cabinets and cubbyholes -- make sure you paint inside these areas, as well. Let the paint dry for 24 to 36 hours.

Sand the entire surface of the unit lightly using 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe the excess dust away.

Brush two to three coats of enamel on the unit, avoiding brush marks and streaks as much as possible. Allow each coat to dry for 48 hours. Lightly sand the entertainment unit with 220-grit sandpaper and wipe away the dust between each coat of enamel.

Re-attach the hardware to the entertainment unit.