How to Paint Kitchen Tables

Unscrew the legs from the kitchen table and move if outside, if possible, to keep sanding dust and paint from staining your floor. If the table is large or difficult to disassemble, spread a drop cloth or sheets of old newspapers over the ground under it.

Clean the surface of the table thoroughly with a sponge dipped in a mild cleaner specifically formulated for the materials the top is made from. Tackle stubborn stains with a scrub brush, moving it in a circular motion. Rub the table with a dry cloth to remove remnants of the cleaner.

Sand the table with a handheld power sander and a 80- or 100-grit sanding pad attached to it. Run the sander across the tabletop and the surfaces of each leg, moving your hand in small circles. The main purpose of lightly sanding the table is to remove existing paint or shine so the fresh paint will adhere better to its surface. Wipe the surfaces with a tack cloth to clear out the residue from the sanding process.

Apply a thin coat of oil-based primer over the surface of the table. Cover the top, sides and legs of the table completely with the primer, applying it with a brush in the direction of the grain of the wood. Leave the primer to dry.

Apply a coat of latex paint in your desired color over the table when the primer is dry. Using a thick paintbrush, apply the paint in the direction of the grain of wood, starting at the top and working your way toward the legs. Use a small paintbrush to paint the edges or crevices. Inspect the table to make sure you have not missed a spot, and leave it to dry completely.

Apply another coat or two of paint over the previously dried coat to achieve a bold color that conceals the primer and does not wear easily. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly before applying another coat.

Apply a thin coat of satin polyurethane sealer over the final dried coat of paint to protect it from food and drink spills and stains. Let the first coat dry thoroughly before applying a second coat. Leave the table to completely dry for 48 hours before use.