How to Paint a Dresser With Faux Zebra

If you have an old dresser that is looking a little worse for wear, or you simply want to jazz up your existing furniture, consider repainting it. Not only does this save money, but you will recycle an item that would otherwise be discarded. A zebra stripe paint effect complements a number of different styles, from safari-themed rooms to British Colonial style, and you don't have to stick to black and white. Try fluorescent pink or electric blue for a funky kid's room.

Dust sheet
Fine-grade sandpaper
Wood filler
Wood primer
Paint in color of choice
Masking sheet
Pencil
Craft knife
Black paint

Instructions

- 1
  Position the dresser on a dust sheet to prevent dust and spillages from ruining the floor. Thoroughly clean the dresser.
- 2
  Sand with a fine-grade sandpaper. Move the sandpaper in the direction of the wood grain, to create a "roughed-up," textured surface for primer to adhere to. If the furniture is painted, you can paint over the top, but it's still a good idea to lightly sand the dresser first. Wax can be removed with water and wire wool.
- 3
  Fill any deep scratches or nicks that accumulate over time with a wood filler. Allow the filler to set and gently sand to create a smooth surface. Apply a coat of wood primer to the entire dresser and allow it to dry.
- 4
  Remove handles from the dresser. Paint the handles either black or white before replacing them upon completion of the dresser. Alternatively, replace the handles before painting them, and paint each handle the correct color in relation to the color of the area of the dresser where the handle is positioned.
- 5
  Paint the dresser with a white base coat for a realistic effect. Choose a bright, bold color for a more modern, funky appearance. Alternatively, simply select a color that complements the existing color palette of the room. Allow to dry.
- 6
  Study pictures of zebra prints so you have a good idea of how the pattern looks.
- 7
  Cut a piece of masking sheet large enough to cover the top of the dresser off the roll. Masking sheet is similar to masking tape but comes on a roll, allowing you to use large sheets rather than thin tape. Lay the sheet out on a flat surface, and draw your stripe pattern onto the backing paper with a pencil. Use a craft knife to cut out the areas that represent the black stripes, leaving you with a stencil.
- 8
  Remove the backing paper and lay the sheet onto the top of the dresser. Paint the exposed areas with black paint to create stripes. Remove the masking sheet and allow paint to dry.
- 9
  Repeat Steps 6 and 7 on all the surfaces of the dresser until the whole piece is covered with zebra stripes. Replace painted handles.

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