What Is Needed to Paint a Coffee Table?

Sandpaper

• All of the old varnish and paint will need to be removed before you can begin painting. You will need sandpaper in a number of grits. The lower the grit number, the coarser the sandpaper, and the higher the grit number, the finer the sandpaper. The coarse sandpaper is used in the beginning to roughly remove the paint or varnish, and the fine grit is the finisher. Once sanding is complete, you will need a cotton cloth to remove all the dust left from sanding so it does not get mixed in with any paint.

Priming the Table

• Primer is used as a base paint and is typically white. You can choose from oil-based or latex primer; keep in mind that your final paint color must be the same type. The primer will cover up wood grain and knots and give your table an overall smooth finish. You will need to have a drop cloth or plenty of newspaper to place under the coffee table to avoid splattering any areas that you do not want to get paint on. You will also want to have latex gloves to keep paint off your hands, making cleanup much easier.

Final Color

• The top coat is the final coat of paint you will need. You can use paint from a can that is brushed on or paint from a spray can that is simply sprayed on; fewer colors are available in spray cans. Spraying paint might cause streaks, while putting on paint with a brush will give an overall smooth finish. Plan to have enough paint for two coats as one coat will rarely be enough to finish the job.

The Right Brush

• If you decide to use paint from a can for the top coat, you will need paint brushes to complete the job. Be sure to choose one that will smoothly apply your paint, and choose brushes designed for the type of paint you have selected, whether oil or latex. Soft bristles made from polyester are an excellent choice for furniture painting.