DIY Table Paint

Sand the table surface with 60-grit sandpaper to remove surface imperfections. Sand the edges, rounding off sharp wood.

Fill gaps and nail holes with wood filler. Press the wood filler into the wood dents, gaps and holes with a putty knife. Drag the putty knife across the wood putty to smooth it into the surface imperfections. Allow the putty to dry for 30 minutes to one hour.

Sand the table surface with 80-grit sandpaper to even out the wood surface and smooth the wood filler. Sand in circular motions using an orbital sander.

Sand the table surface with 120-grit sandpaper and an orbital sander to achieve a final smooth surface prior to applying primer and paint.

Wipe the wood table down with a damp cotton rag to remove dust and debris from the surface. Apply only a damp rag since water will raise the wood grain.

Prime the table surface with oil-based primer. Apply three coats of primer, allowing 30 minutes drying time between coats. Paint the primer on in even strokes using a fine-bristled paint brush. Try to avoid brush marks. Allow the final coat to dry prior to proceeding.

Sand the surface of the primer coat with 120-grit sandpaper and an orbital sander to remove brush marks and other primer imperfections. Sand lightly to remove only a small amount of primer.

Wipe the table down with a damp cotton rag. Paint the table with oil-based paint. Apply three coats and allow a 30-minute drying time between coats. Wipe the surface down smooth between each coat with 220-grit steel wool to smooth the paint marks out.

Allow the paint to fully dry for 24 hours before proceeding. Apply a clear-coat finish to protect the table paint. Spray on the finish with an electric sprayer or spray can. Apply two coats of clear finish--gloss or satin--sanding with 220-grit steel wool between coats.