Can I Use Wall Paint to Paint a Night Stand?

Removing the Original Finish

• In order to make sure that the paint doesn't peel, chip or crack, you will have to first remove the old finish on the wood. This is the most common problem when painting wood furniture. If you don't remove the clear coat, the paint won't stick properly. Use a medium-grade sandpaper to break apart this old finish and then sand it out with a fine-grade sandpaper before proceeding. This will help give you the right surface for paint.

Detail and Relief Work

• Nightstands that have carving, relief or detail work also present a challenge when using wall paint. If the finish is not properly removed from these areas and the paint is not properly applied, it will peel. Use steel wool to get into these fine areas and thoroughly remove the old finish. Then use a small art paint brush to paint the detail work. Simply going over the area with a large brush will give the appearance of covering it, but it won't get down into the detail work properly.

Choosing the Right Paint Finish

• The type of wall paint that you use will also be a determining factor in how well it works on a nightstand. Steer clear of glossy finishes, as these can be prone to cracking. Instead, use a flat or a satin finish. While the piece won't be shiny, the paint will last a lot longer. You can always apply a clear protective coat over the paint to supply a little more gloss for the piece after you have painted.

Painting Correctly

• Priming furniture is vital before using a latex-based wall paint. Use a primer that is intended for use over wood and go over the entire piece. Don't forget to use a small art brush for any detail work to completely cover this area. In addition, thin coats are best. If you use too heavy of a coat, or you paint unevenly, this will leave the door wide open for cracks and peeling. Work slowly. It is better to apply two very thin coats than to rush through and do a sloppy job with one coat.